In response to media reports raising concerns about dust emissions and road safety in the vicinity of Fenglin Township caused by gravel trucks during the Mataian Creek dredging project, the Water Resources Agency (WRA) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs stated today (January 30) that it fully understands the concerns of local residents and road users regarding their living environment and traffic safety. The agency will maintain active horizontal communication with relevant authorities to prevent any adverse impacts on road safety.
The WRA explained that the current phase of the dredging operation primarily involves excavating and transporting sediment from the river channel to designated stockpiling areas. Since the opening of the steel temporary bridge, all related dredging vehicles have traveled exclusively along dike-top roads and water prevention roads behind the dikes. These routes are designated internal alignments within the construction zone, and the vehicles do not travel on Provincial Highway 9. Furthermore, vehicle traffic on the roads around Fenglin Township comprises not only gravel trucks from this dredging project but also vehicles from other major infrastructure and general construction projects. The cleaning and maintenance of public roads outside the construction zone remain the responsibility of the respective road management authorities based on their jurisdiction. Nevertheless, the WRA will maintain horizontal coordination with these entities to jointly minimize the impact on road safety.
The WRA pointed out that it has already instructed construction contractors to continuously step up watering operations on construction roads within the work zone. Additionally, vehicle washing stations have been installed at exits to ensure that dredging vehicles undergo thorough tire and chassis cleaning before leaving the site, thereby mitigating the impact of tracked mud and sand on the surrounding road environment.
Regarding situations where dredging vehicles need to park outside the construction zone or alongside public roads, the WRA has also strictly required the construction units to reinforce safety warning measures, such as installing flashing lights, to prevent accidents caused by poor visibility at night.
The WRA further stated that the proposed plan to use the north bank of the Mataian Creek dike as a gravel stockpiling area is currently in the planning stage. Moving forward, the operational principle for dredging vehicles will continue to prioritize water prevention roads behind the dikes, ensuring that all transportation routes remain within the boundaries of the construction zone. The WRA reiterated that it will continuously conduct rolling reviews of its construction management methods and maintain close communication with local governments and relevant agencies. While securing flood control safety, the agency remains fully committed to balancing local tranquility with road safety.
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#2100