Utsunomiya LRT Lightline surpasses 15 million users

The next-generation light rail transit (LRT) system known as ‘Lightline’ in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, has reached a significant milestone, surpassing 15 million cumulative users within three years of its August 2023 opening. This achievement exceeded initial demand projections by approximately seven months.

Beyond ridership, the system has impacted local mobility. Surveys conducted by Utsunomiya City indicate that commuting times have decreased by an average of nine minutes, while school commuting times have dropped by an average of 25 minutes compared to pre-LRT levels. The system has also contributed to a population increase of 5,600 people along its route.

In a related development regarding the system's expansion, Utsunomiya City, Haga Town, and Utsunomiya Light Rail have applied for national certification for a project to extend the LRT to the west side of JR Utsunomiya Station. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is expected to certify the ‘Track Transport Sophistication Implementation Plan’ as early as early October.