High speed rail to boost services, modernize ticketing: Chairman

Taipei, June 25 (CNA) Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) will launch a series of upgrades aimed at improving passenger experience, including more train services and a modernized ticketing system, Chairman Shih Che (史哲) said Wednesday.

Speaking at the Legislature, Shih noted that ridership has continued to rise post-COVID, with daily passenger numbers averaging 214,000 in 2024 — a 7 percent increase from the previous year.

To meet growing demand, THSR will add 25 weekly train services starting July 1, bringing the total to 1,128. Additional services are also planned for peak periods in the fourth quarter.

Shih said the company will also develop a new ticketing and seat reservation system that allows passengers to use mobile QR codes, travel paper-free, and access digital commuter passes and coupons.

In preparation for 12 new trains set to arrive in late 2026, THSR is also upgrading its southern Taiwan maintenance facilities and enhancing station and onboard infrastructure, he said.