By KHT Staff. AI illustration image based on reference pictures.
KAOHSIUNG — A test of manual folding sunshades at three pedestrian crossings near MRT and light rail transfer points has begun as sweltering summer temperatures return, following a few days of heavy rain.
The Mass Rapid Transit Bureau said the shades were installed at crossings near MRT Red Line R6 Kaisyuan Station (凱旋站) and Light Rail C3 Cianjhen Star Station (前鎮之星站), as well as near MRT Red Line R13 Aozihdi Station (凹子底站) and Light Rail C24 Heart of Love River Station (愛河之心站).
The bureau said the shades use a lightweight structure and can be folded manually for maintenance or during strong winds and typhoon warnings. The three sites are trial locations and will begin formal use after inspection.
City Councilor Chang Po-yang (張博洋) said the city purchased six canvas-style shades from South Korea, with three installed for the trial and three kept as backups. The total cost, including installation, was NT$1.65 million, or about NT$275,000 per shade.
Chang said the cost was far lower than fixed shade structures used in Taipei, though the systems are different in design. The MRT Bureau noted that the shades are for pedestrians and should not be used by scooter or bicycle riders waiting at intersections.
Some pedestrians told Liberty Times the shades were needed because Kaohsiung’s heat made exposed crossings uncomfortable, especially for people transferring between rail systems.
However, environmental group Kaohsiung Tree Party (高雄愛樹人) criticized the project, saying the sites were originally tree pits and that trees would provide better cooling than umbrellas. The group said the shades block sunlight but do not lower urban temperatures.
