Taiwan flood response faces budget disputes and infrastructure damage

Heavy rainfall across southern Taiwan has caused significant flooding and infrastructure damage, prompting various emergency responses. In Kaohsiung, a road collapse in the Nanzi District has led to authorities using cement to stabilize the ground near residential areas. Meanwhile, Tainan City has activated social welfare mechanisms to support vulnerable populations, including the elderly and homeless, following school and work closures due to the weather.

The disaster has also triggered a political dispute regarding relief capabilities. The Executive Yuan reported that the Legislative Yuan cut approximately 5.53 million TWD from the 'Administrative Extension Liaison Fee,' which is used for disaster inspection and recovery efforts. This reduction has reportedly limited Premier Cho Jung-tai’s ability to conduct on-site inspections, forcing him to rely on video calls and telephone communications to coordinate with local governments.

In a display of cross-party cooperation, Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen responded to an urgent request from Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai for water pumps to clear flooded basements, promising to coordinate equipment deployment immediately.