Premier Sean Chen on July 31 instructed the Directorate General of Highways to expedite road repairs concerning temporary projects in post-Morakot reconstruction areas to ensure transport safety. The areas, including nearby riverbank stretches of Provincial Highways No. 20 and 21, were severely damaged by June 10 flooding and Typhoon Talim.
The premier also ordered local governments to maintain alternative roads so residents can evacuate if there is an emergency.
Chen gave these directions while presiding over a Morakot Post-Disaster Reconstruction Council meeting. The council reported that of the 3,439 permanent housing units in 39 locations that were scheduled to be completed by the third anniversary of the typhoon, 3,213 units in 36 locations have been completed, while the rest could be finished by the end of this August.
The premier said that once reconstruction projects for permanent housing units and sustainable communities are completed, attention should be paid to restoring and developing community consciousness and strength so that families in those communities will want to stay there for generations.
Chen also noted that the council has coordinated several marketing campaigns which have boosted regional tourism and helped drive local agricultural and specialty product sales. Tourist return rates in several reconstruction areas are now higher than they were in 2009. The premier asked other relevant agencies to spearhead similar activities.
The Morakot Post-Disaster Reconstruction Special Act will expire this August 29, so in accordance with Article 30, the council has proposed extending the Act for two more years. The premier agreed in principle and asked relevant agencies to complete their reconstruction tasks within the extended timeframe.
In addition, the council and the Ministry of Education proposed establishing a post-Morakot museum at the National Science and Technology Museum in Kaohsiung. Premier Chen agreed to the plan, saying he expected the museum to encompass the 3 E's of museum functions: to educate, entertain and enrich visitors. He authorized the council to name the museum and said he hoped it would open within the next two years.