TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Members of the public vented frustration on Friday (Nov. 1) at the amount of debris on Taipei’s streets from Typhoon Kong-rey.

Others criticized the decision to maintain regular work and school schedules on Friday, saying their commute felt like an “obstacle course,” per CNA. The Taipei Public Works Department apologized to the public, and Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) ordered work to be completed as soon as possible.

During a press briefing, Chiang explained that Thursday's weather forecast showed a significant decrease in wind and rain in Taipei, below the threshold for canceling work and school. After discussion among Keelung, Taipei, New Taipei, and Taoyuan, Chiang said a collective decision was made to resume normal schedules.

The Taipei Department of Environmental Protection mobilized 5,000 workers, while the Public Works Department deployed five divisions and collaborated with the Taipei Fire Department to remove over 2,000 fallen trees from roads.

Chiang added that all departments worked together, and by 9 a.m., around 80% of major roads had been cleared. He said efforts are underway to clean up alleys as quickly as possible.

The Public Works Department reported that it began joint rescue operations at midnight, clearing streets of fallen trees and broken branches to meet residents' needs for work and school transportation. The Department of Environmental Protection asked citizens for patience and support.