HSR trains canceled, rescheduled due to signal problem

Taipei, May 25 (CNA) Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR) experienced a signal problem on Monday morning on a section of track in western Taiwan, forcing the cancellation and rescheduling of trains starting at 8 a.m.

During a routine inspection early Monday, a switch signal abnormality was reported on a section of track near Miaoli, HSR said. Workers were sent to repair the problem, forcing both northbound and southbound trains to use a single track, the company said.

As a result, Taiwan HSR said, it had to cancel all scheduled trains, starting at 8 a.m., and instead dispatch three southbound trains per hour from Nangang Station and three northbound trains from Zuoying Station.

The trains are departing on the hour, at 20 minutes past, and at 40 minutes past, stopping at every station along the route, HSR said. Only freestyle seating is being used, except in the business class cars, it said.

In light of the delays, passengers who arrive at their destination 30-60 minutes late will be offered a 50 percent refund, while those who arrive over an hour late or do not use their tickets may receive a full refund, HSR said.

Passengers with reserved seat tickets who board trains on Monday, with only freestyle seating being used due to the schedule changes can also receive a refund of the price difference at any Taiwan HSR ticket office within one year of the ticket's departure date, the railway said.

Taiwan HSR apologized for the inconvenience and pledged to keep customers updated as the repair work proceeded.