Taiwan Sugar Railways

Taiwan Sugar Railways is a network of narrow gauge railways in Taiwan that was primarily established for the transportation of sugar cane. The railways were built and operated by the Taiwan Sugar Corporation, a state-owned enterprise responsible for the country's sugar production.

History

The Taiwan Sugar Railways were first established during the Japanese colonial period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The railways were initially built to facilitate the transportation of sugar cane from the fields to the sugar mills. Over time, the network expanded to include passenger and freight services.

Operations

The Taiwan Sugar Railways operated on a narrow gauge of 762 mm (2 ft 6 in), which was suitable for the hilly terrain and tight curves of the sugar cane fields. The railways used a variety of locomotives, including steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, and electric locomotives. The railways also used a variety of rolling stock, including flatcars for transporting sugar cane and passenger cars for transporting workers and passengers.

Decline and Preservation

With the decline of the sugar industry in Taiwan, many of the sugar railways were decommissioned in the late 20th century. However, some sections of the railways have been preserved and converted into tourist attractions. These include the Alishan Forest Railway, which is now a popular tourist railway, and the Kaohsiung Sugar Railway, which is now a cultural park.

See also

• Rail transport in Taiwan
• History of rail transport in Taiwan
• Taiwan Sugar Corporation