Japanese railways face disruptions from power outages and planned seasonal suspensions

Various railway disruptions have been reported across Japan involving JR Hokkaido and JR East.

In Asahikawa, Hokkaido, a power outage occurred at the Asahikawa depot on August 21 due to a crow carcass coming into contact with electrical equipment. This resulted in the cancellation of two limited express trains, affecting approximately 230 passengers.

On the Nemuro Line between Shintoku and Obihiro, a power outage caused by a tree touching power lines led to the cancellation of 19 trains, including several limited express services like the ‘Ozora’ and ‘Tokachi’. Cable replacement work is currently underway.

Separately, JR East announced planned service suspensions on the Yamada Line from October 5 to December 4. This 61-day measure aims to manage delays caused by fallen leaves during the autumn season, specifically affecting the section between Kamiminai and Sendai.