TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Metro Taipei announced it will increase the speed of some escalators at high-traffic stations starting Tuesday to improve efficiency.

To improve escalator capacity and reduce passenger waiting times, the speed of 47 upward escalators at 29 major stations will be gradually adjusted. The speed will increase from 0.5 meters per second to 0.65 m/s, boosting each escalator’s capacity by 22 additional passengers per minute, per CNA.

Metro Taipei noted that, based on international benchmarks, the maximum escalator speed in metro systems like those in Singapore and Hong Kong is about 0.75 m/s.

In 2017, a trial adjustment of escalator speeds was conducted at 11 transfer stations to alleviate long lines. The speed was increased from 0.5 m/s to 0.65 m/s, which effectively reduced passenger wait times without a significant increase in injuries, per CTEE.

Signs will be installed by the 47 escalators to warn passengers of the faster speed and advise them to hold the handrails and stand firmly on the steps.

Metro Taipei also urged passengers to stand on both sides of the escalators and avoid using mobile phones while riding. Parents are advised to watch their children, while passengers carrying heavy items, feeling unwell, or elderly passengers are encouraged to use the elevators.

The 29 stations affected by the change include Taipei Main Station, Zhongxiao Fuxing Station, Nanjing Fuxing Station, Daan Station, Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station, Ximen Station, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station, Dongmen Station, Zhongxiao Dunhua Station, City Hall Station, Nangang Station, Haishan Station, Fuzhong Station, Xinpu Station, Songshan Station, Xiangshan Station, Dapinglin Station, Xingtian Temple Station, Zhongshan Elementary School Station, Daqiaotou Station, Jingan Station, Yongan Market Station, Dingxi Station, Sanchong Elementary School Station, Taipei Bridge Station, Luzhou Station, Zhongshan Junior High School Station, Technology Building Station, and Dazhi Station.

Metro Taipei operates 1,190 escalators across its system. Officials will monitor usage and passenger flow at other escalators to determine whether additional speed adjustments are needed.