TAIPEI, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) -- Taiwan has unveiled policies of opening the island's mountains and forests more to the public and streamlining application processes for hikers.
All mountain and forest areas not classified as security sites or conservation areas are open to the public, according to the new rules released Monday.
People who want to enter conservation areas would no longer be subject to evaluations of their mountain-climbing experience, but would still need to apply for permission online before starting a trip.
The forestry authorities would manage motor vehicle access to mountain and forest roads, but would not limit public access, according to the new rules.
The island will also improve facilities on the mountains and forests, including camping sites and telecom signal coverage.
Responses to the new policy have been mixed online, with some welcoming the change while others showing concern about its environmental impact and the rescue cost that might be caused by irresponsible climbers.
