Local authorities implement guidelines for off-road vehicle usage
In a significant move for adventure tourism in Taiwan, Manjhou Township has launched an ATV eco-tourism package, partnering with the Loshanfeng Scenic Area. This initiative, located near Kenting National Park, is the first of its kind in Taiwan and aims to promote sustainable ATV tourism.
The package includes a two-and-a-half-hour ATV tour, priced at NT$3,000 per group. It takes participants through scenic sites such as a mysterious oasis hidden in the forest, all while adhering to safety regulations.
Safety has been a priority in the ATV industry, with training, insurance, and equipment checks required before each trip. The ordinance, enacted by the Pingtung County Government, also sets rules on age restrictions, helmet use, and safety requirements for participants.
Inexperienced drivers have caused numerous crashes and injuries in the past, leading to safety concerns. However, with the new regulations in place, local ATV operators are confident about the industry's future.
The ordinance is part of a broader initiative by the Pingtung County Government to regulate all-terrain vehicles (ATV) for safety improvement and nature conservation. About 27 hectares of land are undergoing rezoning for the ATV project in Manjhou Township.
The regulations are being implemented in Manjhou Township, following a trial program that began over the weekend. The ordinance includes penalties for operators who fail to comply with regulations, such as disclosing business activities, purchasing insurance, using certified vehicles, and not allowing driving under the influence.
ATVs have grown in popularity in Taiwan over the past decade, and are a mainstay of adventure tourism. The county government aims to promote Manjhou as a model for safe ATV tourism, aligning with the Loshanfeng Scenic Area's tourism development.
The Loshanfeng Scenic Area, which covers parts of Checheng, Mudan, and Manzhou townships, has submitted a business development plan for ATV use, which has been approved by the Pingtung County Government. This makes Manjhou Township the latest addition to the ATV tourism scene in Taiwan.
The Executive Yuan issued management guidelines for local governments in 2023 to adapt these regulations based on environmental conditions. The ordinance in Manjhou Township is a testament to the county's commitment to responsible ATV tourism.
While ATVs remain prohibited in Kenting National Park, people interested in riding them are often drawn to the coastal areas of Pingtung County. With the introduction of the ATV eco-tourism package in Manjhou Township, adventure-seekers now have a safe and regulated way to enjoy the thrill of ATV riding while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Taiwan.
