As the Niigata mayoral election approaches, route bus services continue to be cut because of a shortage of drivers, raising concerns that access to public transport will become even more limited.
Niigata City, the only ordinance-designated city on the Sea of Japan coast of Honshu, faces the challenge of developing its public transport network as population decline and population aging continue. The city’s inability to stop route bus service cuts and the worsening driver shortage have been highlighted.
Niigata Kotsu route buses serving Funaecho in Higashi Ward, Niigata City, run only 5 times on weekdays and 2 times on holidays. On some days, the last bus leaves shortly after noon, highlighting the limited number of services to the city center.
The decline in public transport has been attributed to the entrenchment of car dependence, declining ridership due to population decline, and a chronic driver shortage. Attention is focused on future municipal policy and ensuring convenient mobility for residents.