[JP] Maglev Essential for National Strength Despite Depopulation (?)
Posted: 21. Jul 2026, 11:37
[JP] JR Central Vice Chairman Ueno: Maglev Essential for National Strength Despite Depopulation
Source: Asahi Shimbun
Original title:
人口減少社会でもリニア？ JR東海副会長「国力維持に大動脈強化」
Date: July 21, 2026, 13:00
Original language: Japanese
Web link: https://www.asahi.com/articles/ASV7H1G8 ... P021M.html
Accessed: July 21, 2026
With Shizuoka Prefecture and JR Central signing the Natural Environment Conservation Agreement, the previously stalled Shizuoka section of the Chuo Shinkansen maglev line is expected to start construction within this year. The project, stalled for nine years, has reached a major turning point, though unprecedented difficult construction and doubled costs remain challenges.
In an interview, JR Central Vice Chairman Mamoru Ueno (72), who has led the project, called the development “epoch-making” and expressed gratitude to Shizuoka Governor, residents, and basin municipalities. However, he emphasized the need for thorough preparation: “[Translated quote] This doesn’t mean we can relax. I strongly feel that we must prepare thoroughly for the start of very difficult and long construction. Also, based on the construction status of the Southern Alps Tunnel, I want to clarify the opening date as soon as possible.”
Regarding the nine-year delay, Ueno explained that the environmental assessment predicted a maximum 2 tons/second reduction in Oigawa River flow without countermeasures. While JR Central committed to conservation measures, the “2 tons/second” figure “took on a life of its own,” causing concern. He stated: “[Translated quote] Environmental measures were thoroughly discussed scientifically by Shizuoka Prefecture’s expert panel and MLIT’s expert committee. However, whether we can alleviate the anxiety of the basin residents depends on how much they trust JR Central. For this reason as well, we needed to build communication, and as a result, it took time.”
Source: Asahi Shimbun
Original title:
人口減少社会でもリニア？ JR東海副会長「国力維持に大動脈強化」
Date: July 21, 2026, 13:00
Original language: Japanese
Web link: https://www.asahi.com/articles/ASV7H1G8 ... P021M.html
Accessed: July 21, 2026
With Shizuoka Prefecture and JR Central signing the Natural Environment Conservation Agreement, the previously stalled Shizuoka section of the Chuo Shinkansen maglev line is expected to start construction within this year. The project, stalled for nine years, has reached a major turning point, though unprecedented difficult construction and doubled costs remain challenges.
In an interview, JR Central Vice Chairman Mamoru Ueno (72), who has led the project, called the development “epoch-making” and expressed gratitude to Shizuoka Governor, residents, and basin municipalities. However, he emphasized the need for thorough preparation: “[Translated quote] This doesn’t mean we can relax. I strongly feel that we must prepare thoroughly for the start of very difficult and long construction. Also, based on the construction status of the Southern Alps Tunnel, I want to clarify the opening date as soon as possible.”
Regarding the nine-year delay, Ueno explained that the environmental assessment predicted a maximum 2 tons/second reduction in Oigawa River flow without countermeasures. While JR Central committed to conservation measures, the “2 tons/second” figure “took on a life of its own,” causing concern. He stated: “[Translated quote] Environmental measures were thoroughly discussed scientifically by Shizuoka Prefecture’s expert panel and MLIT’s expert committee. However, whether we can alleviate the anxiety of the basin residents depends on how much they trust JR Central. For this reason as well, we needed to build communication, and as a result, it took time.”