Information and communication technologies for enhanced Emergency Management in Taiwan High Speed Rail

Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation (THSRC) operates in the western part of Taiwan where 90% of Taiwanese population lives. With the unique geographical location, travel characteristics and living environment, Taiwan encounters various types of natural hazards, such as earthquakes, typhoons, floods and landslides. Hence, it is critical for THSRC to ensure its ability and efficiency in emergency management. THSRC has combined a variety of information and communication technologies, to develop a comprehensive platform that could enhance its interactive communications, emergency responses, decision-making processes, and innovative ticketing service to increase passenger experience and confidence by integrating GPS/GIS, image recognition techniques, location-based services, push messages, etc. This platform not only helps the monitoring of real-time system operation but also identifies the environmental danger along the high speed line. The real-time train operation data are provided to both front-line staff and management level via smart phones and tablets. In addition passenger information kiosks and T Express App are available to provide more accurate, real-time and customized made information for passengers. Therefore, with the application of information and communication technologies, it is aimed to enhance its overall capabilities in emergency management, decision-making quality, and improvement of productivity of THSRC, and thereby ensuring better safety to its passengers and ultimately improving customer satisfaction.