Premier Lin Chuan has ordered the transportation ministry to conduct a review of safety issues in Taiwan’s tourism industry.
The move comes after a fire on a tour bus last week took the lives of 26 people, the majority of them Chinese tourists. The fire was the latest in a string of fatal accidents involving tourists.
On Monday, the Cabinet said the investigation will take a comprehensive look at the problems that have affected the country’s tourism industry in the past. The investigation will examine potential safety problems at tourist sites and issues with lodging and transport. Investigators will also propose measures for dealing with problems and ensuring tourists’ safety.
Since the tour bus tragedy, the Directorate General of Highways has recalled 20 buses of the same model for inspection. 60% have failed to meet required standards. Lin said this shows serious hidden problems with transportation in the tourism industry and with Taiwan-built tour buses.
The premier has ordered a cross-department review of potential problem areas including bus manufacturing, bus safety, and working hours for drivers. The review board has already begun its discussion of tour bus safety.