Shimen–Hsinchu Pipeline Project Breaks Through Ahead of Schedule　Marking a New Milestone in Northern Taiwan's Water Supply Resilience

Recent seasonal rain fronts have brought abundant rainfall to the Taoyuan and Hsinchu regions. The Shimen Reservoir is expected to receive approximately 22.9 million cubic meters of inflow, while the Baoshan Reservoir and Baoshan Second Reservoir are nearing full capacity. As a result, both domestic and industrial water supplies in the region remain stable and secure.

Nevertheless, as extreme weather events become increasingly frequent, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) continues to advance strategic water infrastructure projects to strengthen Taiwan's long-term water supply resilience. Among these initiatives, the "Pearl Necklace Project (珍珠串計畫)" is a key policy aimed at enhancing regional water security through the construction of interconnected water transmission networks. The system enables greater water storage during periods of abundance and facilitates cross-regional water transfers during droughts, thereby improving overall supply reliability.

(Source: MOEA)

A major component of the Pearl Necklace Project, the Shimen Reservoir–Hsinchu Water Transmission Pipeline Project, is progressing steadily. The approximately 25 km transmission system includes a 3.4 km tunnel section, where construction crews have faced challenging conditions, including high temperatures, humidity, and complex geological formations. Behind the project's steady advancement stands a dedicated team of tunnel workers whose expertise and perseverance have been instrumental to its success.

Known locally as "tunnel craftsmen," these professionals descend underground day after day, working within confined spaces and constantly changing geological conditions. For them, tunnel excavation is not only a display of engineering capability, but a process of working in harmony with the earth. As they often say, "We are not fighting the tunnel; we are negotiating with it," reflecting both their professional expertise and deep respect for the natural environment.

(Source: MOEA)

Through the dedicated efforts and close collaboration of the project team, the tunnel section of the Shimen Reservoir–Hsinchu Water Transmission Pipeline Project was successfully completed ahead of schedule on May 20, marking a major project milestone.

Upon full completion in 2028, the project is expected to increase regional water transfer capacity by 300,000 cubic meters per day, significantly enhancing water supply flexibility and drought resilience in the Taoyuan and Hsinchu areas. The project will also enable more effective storage and utilization of valuable water resources, strengthening long-term water security for northern Taiwan.

The MOEA extends its sincere appreciation to all construction personnel and tunnel specialists involved in the project. Through their professionalism, dedication, and hard work, they play a vital role in safeguarding Taiwan's water security. Looking ahead, the MOEA will continue to advance critical water infrastructure projects to strengthen the nation's ability to adapt to extreme climate conditions and to build a safer, more reliable, and more resilient water supply system for future generations.

Source: MOEA