Local

Lai said the latest poll was only a temporary indicator and that his campaign would continue strengthening local support. Ko’s campaign questioned the poll’s credibility, calling it a survey released by a “green think tank.” The contrast shows how polling sponsor, timing, wording, sampling, and method can shape results and how campaigns interpret them.

The project aimed to facilitate transfers between HSR and the Kaohsiung Metro. Passengers currently have to travel from the HSR platform level to the second-floor concourse, exit the station, then use escalators to reach the MRT station underground. The transfer can take nearly 10 minutes.

Nantzikeng Sports Center (楠仔坑運動中心) in Nanzih District (楠梓) began trial operations Sunday. During the trial period, the center is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The fitness center and swimming pool are closed for cleaning from noon to 1 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

According to recent reporting, there are estimates that by 2051, daily passenger volume at the future HSR Pingtung station could exceed 7,000, with peak-hour traffic approaching 900 passengers. Supporters say the project would improve access to Pingtung and support wider development around the future station. But the latest traffic projections show that the benefits of high-speed rail will depend not only on the rail line itself, but also on whether local roads and connecting transport can keep pace.