The JR Kyushu Kagoshima Branch head, who took office in June, expressed concern that the impact of the Kumamoto Earthquake would gradually begin to emerge. The first priority is restoring the Kyushu Shinkansen and securing transportation access.
Hatai Shinji (畑井慎司), who was appointed head of JR Kyushu's Kagoshima Branch effective 23 June, said he expects the recovery of regional economies affected by the Kumamoto Earthquake to take time. He also noted that more than 110,000 accommodation bookings had been canceled in Kagoshima Prefecture, pointing to the possibility that the impact would gradually become more apparent.
He said the immediate challenge is to restore the Shinkansen to its original condition and secure transportation access, adding that he aims to promote the attractions of Kagoshima, Ibusuki and Kirishima to create momentum for attracting visitors. Over the longer term, he indicated that he plans to discuss with local governments measures to address population decline and changes in railway use.
Trials involving combined freight and passenger transport and bicycle trains on the Ibusuki Makurazaki Line have produced encouraging results, and the plan is to expand their scope in the current fiscal year. The bicycle train concept involves carrying bicycles on regularly operating trains and is intended to serve more users.
He said JR Kyushu is due to be entrusted with operating “Centerrace Tenmonkan” next spring and plans to work with “Amu Plaza Kagoshima” at Kagoshima-Chuo Station to create greater local vibrancy. He also indicated an intention to progressively review measures including strengthening facilities around stations and the role of public transportation as part of railway disaster preparedness.