In mid-September of last year (2023), four tunnel excavation operations were successfully completed for Xinyi eastern extension construction, which is considered the most challenging construction project in MRT history. Furthermore, installation of the fire protection and lighting systems has also been completed in the tunnels, and 2.4 km of rails were laid. To provide the public with an understanding of the current construction status, DORTS filmed a short video to unveil the mysteries of the “tail track” in the MRT tunnels.

DORTS stated that in the video, Deputy Chief Engineer Chen Jian-ren of Second District Project Office (2nd DPO), which is responsible for carrying out Xinyi eastern extension construction, explains the construction progress. The video will enable the public to understand how the 3-level-underground station structure of Guangci/Fengtian Temple Station was rebuilt through the restored basement level 1 concourse and mezzanine. Binding of the structural steel reinforcements and templates is currently underway in this section of construction. The implementation of each segment is expected to take 10 to 15 days, and the concrete will be subsequently poured.

(Video link: https://youtu.be/PPGuq40ceXU?si=PxOU4SRDH_j2wL0d)

DORTS explained that the depictions in the video are also multifaceted and include the implementation of the electrical and mechanical facilities, such as the MMC motor control panel and the low-voltage switchboard and PCC vertical air conditioning box construction at the station equipment level. And at the station platform level, there are crossing line, the platform, and the first exposed east-end tunnel (tail track).

Deputy Chief Engineer Chen pointed out that with a length of 520m, the Xinyi eastern extension tail track tunnel connects with the ventilation shaft in Yucheng Park. Guangci/Fengtian Temple Station is the terminal station of the Xinyi-Tamsui line, and vehicle storage is available at the depot at the terminal point of the Xinyi line. The tail track is utilized in the scheduling of future route operations, and four trains can be stored there. The departure of trains setting off for Tamsui each morning, enables the public to conveniently ride on the MRT. 

DORTS stated that Xinyi eastern extension primarily connects with the eastern end of the tail track at Xiangshan Station on the Xinyi line, and the project extends the high-capacity underground route eastward for length of 1.4km. DORTS will periodically share information on the official website, Facebook and Youtube channel, and members of the public who are interested in MRT construction are welcome to browse further.