Taipei launches new subway line in downtown

An inaugural ceremony for the new subway line winding through Taipei's downtown area was held here on Saturday afternoon.

The new subway line, Xinyi Line, extends 6.4 km and has seven stops, including one stop at the city's landmark building, Taipei 101/World Trade Center.

Taiwan leader Ma Ying-jeou expressed his hope at the inaugural ceremony that the new line will encourage more citizens to use public transport.

Xinyi Line is expected to carry 1.8 million rides each day after the normal operation starting from Sunday.