Taichung City, Taiwan — November 26, 2025
Traffic fine revenues in Taichung City have continued to climb annually since 2020, a trend that sparked sharp criticism during a general interpellation session at the Taichung City Council today. Councilors Chou Yung-hung, Chiang Chao-kuo, and Chang Chia-an revealed that over the past five years—up to the end of 2024—the city has collected a total of NT$13.5 billion in traffic fines.
The councilors argued that the city’s traffic enforcement practices have become overly aggressive, placing unnecessary financial pressure on residents. Chou questioned whether Taichung citizens were being treated like “ATMs,” pointing out that fines have “skyrocketed year after year.” He cited complaints about speed cameras on roads such as Fugui Road in Tanzih District, allegedly operated during off-peak hours to increase citation numbers. According to him, the number of fines issued has tripled in recent years, raising concerns about the government’s motives.
Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen did not address the criticism during the session. Transportation Bureau Director Yeh Chao-fu responded instead, stating that the bureau’s budget levels have remained stable and have not grown in proportion to fine revenues.
The Taichung City Police Department explained that increased fine revenue is partly due to changes in national regulations. In 2023, the Ministry of Transportation expanded the categories of violations eligible for public reporting to 59, resulting in a rise in citizen-filed complaints. Additionally, amendments raised penalties for serious violations, such as failing to yield to pedestrians and dangerous driving—further contributing to higher fine totals.
Regarding Fugui Road, the police clarified that it serves as a crucial link between National Highway 4 and Provincial Highway 74 and is known for frequent accidents. The Traffic Police Brigade has publicly announced the presence of speed enforcement equipment on the road and emphasized the importance of obeying posted speed limits to enhance road safety.