Construction for the new Linear Chuo Shinkansen has more hiccups as estimates for its completion gets pushed back to 2031 or later.

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The construction project on the new Linear Chuo Shinkansen has been plagued by multiple setbacks and now it’s been announced that construction will likely be extended to 2031, a full 4 years longer than the original plan to open in 2027.

This comes on the heels of Shizuoka Prefecture Governor Heita Kawakatsu’s hesitation to allow construction along a narrow section through the prefecture. In lieu of essentially bring construction to a standstill in the region, Kawakatsu was quoted as saying he will be stepping down from his position after the June legislative season.

The announcement of the extended construction period to 2031 has disappointed local residents, who have voiced concerns regarding a lack of explanation. The project’s stance on disclosing information to local residence has often been question. The longer construction is delayed, the more pressure will put on local residents; therefore, it is necessary to be as open as possible with information, including the nondisclosure of work-related accidents as well.

JR Tokai President Shunsuke Niwa stated, “A delay with starting construction in Shizuoka will directly lead to a delay in the opening in Nagoya.”

Once the new Chuo Shinkansen is completed, it will connect Tokyo with Osaka in a little over an hour traveling at a maximum speed of 314 mph (505 km/h).

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▶︎ Related Links:

• Yahoo! Japan News (Japanese)
• JR Odekake – Shinkansen (Japanese)
• JR East – Official Site (English)