Taiwan’s Hualien County Struggles to Rebuild Post-Earthquake

The earthquake that struck Taiwan on April 3 left a trail of destruction in its wake, particularly affecting the picturesque Hualien County. Many business owners, like Chen Rei-jia, were caught off guard by the intensity of the 7.4 magnitude quake, which was the strongest the island had experienced in 25 years. The aftermath of the disaster has left survivors facing a new challenge as tourists have canceled their trips en masse, leading to a sharp decline in the local economy.

Hualien County, known for its breathtaking Taroko Gorge and natural beauty, heavily relies on tourism to sustain its economy. However, the earthquake caused significant damage to the area, with roads blocked by rubble and key attractions inaccessible due to landslides. Local businesses, including restaurants and tour guides, are struggling to stay afloat as the number of visitors to scenic spots has plummeted by 85% since the previous year.

The bleak outlook for Hualien’s tourism sector has had a domino effect on the entire region. Market vendors, like Cheng Wen-zhong and Lin Ya-mi, are experiencing a sharp decline in business due to the absence of tourists. The road connecting the city to Taipei has been damaged, making it more challenging for visitors to reach Hualien. Despite government support programs and subsidies, locals fear that a full recovery could take years, with some estimating up to a decade for the tourism industry to bounce back to pre-quake levels.

Efforts are being made to restore tourists’ confidence in Hualien as a safe destination. However, ongoing news coverage of the earthquake, social media clips of destruction, and persistent aftershocks have made travelers hesitant to visit the region. Local businesses are adapting to the changing circumstances, with some tour guides transitioning into taxi drivers to make ends meet. While the road to recovery may be long and arduous, residents like Lai Sui-er remain hopeful for a better future, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability during trying times.