Taipei Water Department

　　Regarding the recent suspected water quality issue with the self-managed water system in Xishan Borough, Shilin District, Taipei City, upon receiving notification from the borough chief on April 8th, Taipei mayor Chiang Wan-an instructed the Taipei Water Department to dispatch personnel to assist in sampling and testing the water quality of the self-supplied water system in Xishan Borough. The test results indicated a high level of coliform bacteria (3,900 MPN/100ml), prompting an immediate notice to the villagers to refrain from drinking the water temporarily. Furthermore, access to tap water collection stations was provided for use by local residents. On April 10th, the Taipei Water Department conducted another round of sampling and testing, showing a slight decrease in coliform bacteria levels (1,700 MPN/100ml).

　　On April 12th, follow-up testing was conducted, revealing a coliform bacteria level of 2,400, which remained at an elevated level. Additionally, sampling was expanded to two locations in Xishan Borough as well as Xishan Experimental Elementary School. The coliform bacteria levels at the two water sources were 5,800 (Tianxi 2nd Bridge) and 1,400 (Pamir Park), respectively. Although Xishan Experimental Elementary School underwent UV disinfection, its coliform bacteria level was measured at 86, still not meeting drinking water standards. Today (April 13th), the Taipei Water Department dispatched professional experts to assist in conducting chlorination disinfection of the water system to ensure the safety of water use for the public.

　　The Taipei Water Department has clarified that the residents of Xishan Borough in Shilin District typically do not utilize the municipal tap water system for their daily water needs. Instead, they depend on a locally managed, self-established water supply system. This system predominantly relies on untreated mountain spring water overseen by the community. However, following a recent earthquake, concerns have arisen regarding potential contamination, leading to elevated levels of coliform bacteria.

　　To urgently provide clean tap water to the public, the Taipei Water Department has set up emergency water collection stations at the following 5 locations to serve the water needs of local residents:

1. Beside the bus stop near No. 76, Section 3, Zhishan Road 

2. Xishan Borough Office (No. 260, Section 3, Zhishan Road)

3. Platform near Shengren Bridge (Intersection of Lane 336, Section 3, Zhishan Road)

4. Entrance of Xishan Experimental Elementary School  (No. 199, Section 3, Zhishan Road)

5. Xishan Experimental Elementary School Plaza  (No. 199, Section 3, Zhishan Road)

　　Mayor Chiang places great importance on the safety of the citizens' water supply. To address the issue of providing tap water to mountainous areas, he has instructed the Taipei Water Department to handle it as a priority special project and to resolve it as soon as possible.