Trends in Railway Disruptions and Abolitions Due to Natural Disasters and the Current Situation in Kyushu

Abstract

Local public transportation in Japan faces challenges from population decline, rising costs, and natural disasters, with extreme weather increasingly damaging local railways. Since 2011, disruptions have risen, notably due to heavy rain in Kyushu. Since WWII, 29 lines (770.5 km) have been discontinued, primarily from flooding, with peaks in the 1950s–70s and a resurgence since the 2000s. Recent cases involve JR Kyushu, where 12 lines experienced long-term suspensions (2012–2023), with 10 restored as railways averaging 320.5 days. Some lines, like the Hitahikosan Line, converted to BRT, highlighting the need for strategic disaster response planning.