Taiwan’s underground railway line has opened in Kaohsiung for commercial commuter services.

Built over ten years, the line is 15.37km long and runs between Zuoying and Fongshan.

According to Taiwan Ministry of Transportation and Communications’ Railway Bureau, the line will remove all ground-level railway tracks in downtown Kaohsiung, seven railway crossings and 16 flying junctions.

Removal of these crossings and junctions is expected to improve the traffic conditions and minimise train-related accidents.

Developed with an investment of around $3.23bn, the project is set to create additional open space in Kaohsiung’s downtown area.

"Developed with an investment of around $3.23bn, the project is set to create additional open space in Kaohsiung’s downtown area."

The line links ten railway stations that include Zuoying, Kaohiung, and Fongshan, as well as seven new stops.

Taiwan Presidential Office secretary-general Chen Chu has urged the national and city governments to strengthen their ties in order to complete the rail project’s second phase.

The second phase will see construction of a green corridor on land previously used by railroad tracks and commercial buildings.

The Kaohsiung Railway Station has also been opened along, with the line that passes under the Love River.

Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) and Kaohsiung MRT system will use the new station.

In order to celebrate the underground railway opening along with the new stations, TRA is offering discounted train fares.