In response to the barrier lake overflow along the Mataian Creek last year (2025), post-disaster river dredging, restoration, and protection works are currently being pushed forward at full speed. However, due to the frequent movement of construction vehicles, localized dust emissions persist on certain road sections. The Ninth River Management Branch of the Water Resources Agency (WRA), Ministry of Economic Affairs, stated today (February 13) that with the 2026 Lunar New Year approaching, and to balance project progress with the public's quality of life, the WRA and the Ninth River Management Branch have aligned with the Central Government's overall planning to initiate pre-holiday environmental preparation and work suspension measures starting today.
The Ninth River Management Branch noted that to ensure returning residents enjoy good air quality and driving safety during the Lunar New Year holiday, the branch is collaborating with the Public Construction Commission of the Executive Yuan. Together, they will launch street cleaning and dust suppression operations in areas including Fenglin, Wanrong, and Guangfu starting at 12:00 PM today. To fully cooperate with these operations, all dredging and restoration projects within the branch's jurisdiction have been notified to suspend construction entirely before noon today, with work scheduled to resume after the Lunar New Year holiday.
The Ninth River Management Branch explained that project supervision units and construction contractors at each work site have been instructed to execute the work suspension and environmental cleanup. Enhanced supervision will be implemented to ensure compliance, preventing large vehicles from entering and exiting during the holiday, which could otherwise cause dust or impact traffic. Furthermore, the branch has proactively deployed 10 water trucks and recruited local residents through a "work-relief" program to join the cleaning efforts based on the sweeping routes planned by the Public Construction Commission. This initiative not only improves the urban environment but also provides short-term local employment opportunities. Additionally, the branch is partnering with the Highway Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications to carry out regular watering operations along the Fenglin-to-Guangfu section of Provincial Highway 9 during the holiday.
Regarding the Wanrong Diversion Dike Protection Work and the dredging area upstream of the Mataian Creek Bridge, operations will continue through the Lunar New Year holiday due to safety considerations and time urgency, as these works are confined within the construction sites. However, in compliance with the overall suspension measures, construction vehicles are strictly prohibited from entering or exiting the sites. Enhanced watering and environmental management measures will continue within the work zones to prevent dust and ensure stable air quality in the surrounding areas.
The Ninth River Management Branch emphasized that the subsequent restoration works and dredging operations along the Mataian Creek will continue to move forward, with restoring river flood discharge capacity and elevating flood prevention safety remaining the primary goals. Nevertheless, during the Lunar New Year period, priority will be given to safeguarding the public's quality of life and traffic safety. Through cross-departmental cooperation and preventive management measures, the branch will make every effort to minimize the impact of dust.
As the Year of the Horse approaches, the Ninth River Management Branch extends its heartfelt wishes to the people of Hualien for a prosperous and auspicious New Year, hoping the coming year brings favorable weather, family harmony, peace, and good health. The branch remains dedicated to its mission of safeguarding homes, working hand-in-hand with the local community toward a safer and more stable future.
Spokesperson: Mr. Lin, Deputy Director, The Ninth River Management Branch
Office Phone: (03)8325103#1302
Organizing Unit: Chief Chen, Management Division
Office Phone: (03)8325103#2101