While investigators continue to search for answers in Japan’s deadliest train accident in more than 40 years, rail officials are being questioned about driver training procedures and a possible obsession with punctuality. The crash took place April 25 in Amagasaki, a suburb of Japan’s second-largest city, Osaka. At least 106 people died after the seven-car commuter train jumped the tracks and crashed into a nine-story apartment building. Investigators believe the train was traveling 62 mph when it derailed, well above the speed limit for that part of the track. Some of the passengers said the train seemed to be traveling faster than normal. In addition, the train’s driver, 23-year-old Ryujiro Takami, had overshot the previous station, causing a 90-second delay and putting him behind schedule. Stones on the tracks have also been suggested as a possible cause. Takami was one of the 106 people killed in the crash. About 450 others were injured in what was Japan’s worst rail accident since 161 people were killed in a collision near Tokyo in 1963. In the wake of the crash, authorities searched several offices of West Japan Railway Co., the rail operator, and seized documents that might suggest criminal negligence. They have also questioned a conductor who was supervising Takami. Another byproduct of the crash is a call for state-supervised tests for all train drivers. Japan’s transport minister suggested that the government might need to become involved in driver certification. “I wonder if we should be leaving driver qualification to train operators,” Kazuo Kitagawa told reporters. Osamu Yomono, vice president of the Japan Confederation of Railway Workers, told reporters that the train operator “uses terror to force its employees to follow orders.” Takami, who had been on the job for 11 months, reportedly had been reprimanded twice for running late. Yomono said Takami was trying to avoid another reprimand by speeding to make up time. Japan’s rail system is used by nearly 60 million people daily and is considered one of the world’s safest.
Japan scrutinizes rail operators, common practices in wake of disaster
A seven-car commuter train carrying 580 passengers derailed April 25, plowing into an apartment building and killing more than 100.
More Management

How Motorcoach Operators Can Prepare for a Private Equity Sale
Essential strategies to strengthen your business before entering a private equity transaction.
Read More →
Funding Gap Could Force Caltrain to Slash Service, Close Stations
The Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board recently met for a budget workshop, during which staff outlined the significant service reductions Caltrain could be forced to make without new external funding.
Read More →
NFI Group Taps New MCI President and More in People Movement
In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at Alstom, VIA Metropolitan Transit, Transdev US, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.
Read More →
Manhattan’s Central Business District Travel Climbs to 6.3 Million Daily Trips as Transit Leads Growth
Although volumes remain below pre-pandemic levels, NYMTC’s latest Hub Bound report shows rising transit use, shifting commute patterns, and continued recovery.
Read More →
Breaking Accessibility Barriers with the Low Floor Frontrunner Minibus
Accessible transit isn’t a feature—it’s a responsibility. This whitepaper explores how the Low-Floor Frontrunner is redefining mobility with a breakthrough design that removes barriers, empowers riders, and delivers measurable operational advantages for agencies. Discover why this next generation minibus is setting a new standard for inclusive transportation.
Read More →
Massachusetts Announces Summer Savings for Commuter Rail Riders
With major events and increased travel expected across the state this summer, the Administration is focused on making sure people have a reliable, affordable alternative to driving so we can reduce congestion, support daily commuters, and keep Massachusetts moving.
Read More →
Updated: MARTA’s New 'Better Breeze' Fare System Goes Live
The new system introduces tap-to-pay, touchscreen kiosks, and updated Breeze cards, with both old and new systems running through May.
Read More →
ABA Marketplace Drives $124.9M in Business, New Report Finds
As the American Bus Association marks its 100th year, a new ABA Foundation report highlights the Marketplace’s role as a key revenue engine for the bus and group travel industry.
Read More →
How Coach USA Is Using AI to Prevent Bus Accidents
As motorcoaches navigate increasingly congested urban corridors filled with pedestrians, cyclists, scooters, and distracted drivers, safety leaders across the industry are confronting a growing challenge: visibility.
Read More →
WMATA Proposes Revised FY2027 Budget as System Marks 50 Years of Service
Updated financial plan reflects ridership growth and cost controls as the Washington region’s transit system celebrates five decades of operations.
Read More →
