Kaohsiung’s Major Transport Transformation: From a Scooter City to Modern Public Transit
Kaohsiung has long been regarded as a city heavily dependent on scooters. However, over the past eighteen years, the city's transportation landscape has undergone a massive transformation. With the completion of projects such as the MRT, Light Rail Transit (LRT), and railway undergrounding, Kaohsiung is working hard to change the commuting habits of its citizens and establish a more comprehensive public transport system.
Looking back at the development of Kaohsiung's transportation, the opening of the MRT Red Line eighteen years ago was a significant turning point. Subsequently, eleven years ago, the first phase of the Kaohsiung LRT began operations, adding a new mode of travel to the city. Eight years ago, the urban railway undergrounding project was officially completed, and several new commuter stations were opened, making the city's entire transportation network more complete.
One of the core objectives of these infrastructure projects is to break the "intergenerational reproduction of transportation habits." In the past, children in Kaohsiung grew up watching their parents ride scooters and naturally chose scooters as their primary mode of transport when they grew up. Now, with the popularization of the public transport system, the younger generation has more opportunities to choose the MRT or LRT, which helps reduce traffic volume on the roads and improve traffic safety.
The railway undergrounding project has not only improved transportation but also changed the city's use of space. Communities previously separated by railway tracks are now reconnected, noise pollution has been reduced, and many green spaces have been added. Furthermore, the LRT system connects the Kaohsiung port area with the city center, which not only facilitates commuting for citizens but also drives the development of the tourism industry, making Kaohsiung more livable.
While changing the mobility inertia of citizens takes a long time, Kaohsiung's public transport network has already begun to take shape. Through continuous construction and promotion, Kaohsiung is gradually transforming into a more environmentally friendly and convenient modern city. This transportation revolution is not just about hardware construction; it is a comprehensive enhancement of the city's quality of life.