TAIPEI, Taiwan – The Taiwanese government has proposed a land buyback program for properties impacted by recent flooding along the Mataian River in Hualien County. The initiative, announced by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), seeks to address the long-term challenges posed by the river's shifting course and increased flood risk. Minister of Economic Affairs J.W. Wang stated that the government is prepared to acquire land from residents whose properties are now situated within the river's expanded flood plain. This measure follows significant damage caused by recent heavy rainfall, which led to the Mataian River overflowing its banks and altering its course in several areas.