HOKKAIDO, Mar 30 (News On Japan) –
Numerous folks gathered at Ishikari-Numata Station in western Hokkaido on March thirty first to witness the ultimate run of the JR Rumoi Line, bringing an finish to its 116-year historical past as trains made their final journey by way of snow-covered rice fields.
The Rumoi Line, spanning 14.4 kilometers, is the shortest foremost railway line in Japan, and its ultimate day drew crowds of tourists and native residents wanting to bid farewell.
At the station, many expressed a deep sense of loss, with voices noting that the closure would make the realm really feel lonelier and that the road’s lengthy historical past made its finish significantly emotional.
Opened in 1910, the road as soon as performed a significant position in transporting coal and timber, supporting the area’s industries, however as coal mines closed and the native inhabitants declined, ridership fell steadily, resulting in the choice to discontinue operations.
For residents, the lack of the railway raises issues about each day life, significantly for these with out entry to automobiles, as one native famous that switching to bus providers would considerably restrict entry to important journeys equivalent to hospital visits, requiring early departures and lengthy waits earlier than returning dwelling.
Even after the road’s closure, Ishikari-Numata Station is anticipated to stay as a central hub for the city.
Murakami Yoshiki, a member of the Numata Town regional revitalization group, mentioned that whereas the lack of such infrastructure is inevitable, it is very important think about how one can carry ahead its legacy and construct for the long run.
On the ultimate day, ceremonies are scheduled to be held at three stations alongside the road to mark the event.
Source: FNN