Taiwan Today

Taipei City’s Maokong Gondola is set to formally resume full operations March 30 following a suspension of services of nearly one and a half years. The cable car system was shut down in October 2008 for inspections and repair after a support pillar’s foundations were eroded during a major typhoon. When the system reopens, the hours of operation will be extended to 9 p.m., allowing those who want to ride the cable car to avoid the huge crowds of passengers expected during the peak hours in the first few weeks of service. Ticket prices will remain unchanged, with the maximum fare standing at NT$50 (US$1.6). One of the major draws of the upgraded system will be the newly installed carriage featuring a transparent floor that will provide passengers with a better view of the surrounding scenery. The carriage was built and installed by the French company Poma that constructed the entire gondola system. Taipei Rapid Transit Corp., which operates the system, said fares for the carriage with see-through floor would be the same as regular carriages. However, the maximum passenger load has been set at five, or three less than that of a standard carriage. It added that passengers will have to line up to use the cable car system according to the rules and will not be able to specifically choose to ride in the special carriage. Fares can be paid either by purchasing tickets at the stations or using stored-value EasyCards. Groups of 10 or more passengers will be able to receive a discount, according to the TRTC. A maximum of 200 tickets will be issued every 10 minutes, and the tickets will clearly indicate when the holder can use the system, enabling passengers to organize their schedules for shopping, sightseeing, or other activities. The upgraded gondola will feature several new facilities to enhance the experience for passengers. For example, a service center has been added to the Taipei Zoo terminal station, as well as a souvenir shop, a breastfeeding room and even a restroom offering panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. (SB)