The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on September 20 that it would temporarily suspend the operation of the Han River bus due to increased discharge from the Paldang Dam following heavy rainfall in the Seoul and Gyeonggi regions.
On the 17th, a Han River bus is docked at the Yeouido Han River bus pier in Seoul for its inauguration ceremony. The Han River bus will begin official operation on the 18th. Photo by Yoon Dongju
The Han River Flood Control Office approved the discharge of 3,300 tons per second from the Paldang Dam at around 6:10 a.m. on the same day. According to the phased response standards in Seoul City's "2025 Disaster and Safety Action Guide for Flood Season," all vessels (both powered and non-powered) are prohibited from operating on the Han River when the discharge rate from the Paldang Dam exceeds 3,000 tons per second.
Additionally, the city decided to adjust the operation schedule of the Han River bus for public safety, as the water level at Jamsu Bridge has risen, lowering the clearance below the bridge to less than the standard limit of 7.3 meters for safe passage.
Information about the suspension will be provided to citizens through the Han River bus website, and notices will be posted near subway exits and bus stops close to the piers.
The city will determine whether to resume operations after monitoring the decrease in the Paldang Dam discharge, the impact of rising Han River water levels on vessel operations and pier accessibility, and the extent of debris affecting vessels due to the discharge. Once public safety is assured, operations will resume. Updates on normal operations will also be available on the Han River bus website.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
