Governments to enact revisions aimed at securing underwater communication lines
The Taipei Times has reported on a significant development in the realm of national security and infrastructure protection. The Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA) has been designated as the lead agency responsible for implementing amendments regulating protective measures for underwater cables and other critical infrastructure, replacing the Executive Yuan which initially proposed the law.
These amendments aim to extend the protection of critical infrastructure to include water and natural gas pipelines. Minister Without Portfolio Lin Ming-hsin has proposed these amendments, with the objective of safeguarding undersea cables and other vital infrastructure.
The amendments will apply the same penalties for damaging submarine cables as for damaging water and natural gas pipelines. Negligence is punishable by up to six months in prison, detention, or a fine of up to NT$2 million. Those who intentionally endanger the normal functioning of a submarine cable face a prison term of one to seven years and a fine of up to NT$10 million. If actions result in disaster, death, or serious injury, the maximum penalty is life in prison and a fine of up to NT$100 million.
The amendments also include provisions for confiscating vessels used in damaging undersea cables. All ships will be required to keep their automatic identification systems turned on, or face penalties.
Five of the seven laws being amended are the Telecommunications Management Act, Electricity Act, Natural Gas Enterprise Law, Tap Water Act, and Meteorological Act. The two laws addressing vessel control are the Commercial Port Law and the Shipping Act. The Executive Yuan plans to approve amendments to seven laws in total.
The article was written by Chung Li-hua and Fion Khan and published by the Taipei Times. This comprehensive set of amendments represents a significant step forward in ensuring the protection of Taiwan's critical infrastructure, safeguarding national security, and maintaining social stability.
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