Focus Taiwan
Date: 08/13/2020
By: Chang Chih and intern Liu Chien-ling

Taipei, Aug. 13 (CNA) The Shanyue Suspension Bridge, the longest in Taroko National Park in eastern Taiwan's Hualien County, officially opened Wednesday.

After nearly three years of construction, the new footbridge across the Liwu River at a height of 153 meters — which makes it the highest bridge over the gorge — was opened with the blessing of elders from the local Truku indigenous tribe.

The 196 meter bridge comes with viewing decks on both the north and south sides, accessible for those in wheelchairs or with strollers, according the park headquarters.

A bridge was first built in the location in 1914, but the original structure fell into disrepair after being largely replaced by the Central Cross-Island Highway, which opened in 1960 and runs from east to west across Taiwan, according to the park's website.    [FULL  STORY]