[JP] Maglev: 31 of 84 Sections Miss 2027 Target

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Why JR Central’s Maglev Construction Is Delayed Beyond Shizuoka: 31 of 84 Sections Miss 2027 Target

JR Central has confirmed that 31 of 84 construction sections on the Shinagawa–Nagoya maglev line will not meet the original 2027 opening goal. While delays in Shizuoka forced an early revision of that timeline, many other sections are now also behind schedule.

Shizuoka: Water Issues Resolved
On June 2, a key milestone was reached in the Shizuoka section. All six discussion points regarding the impact on the Oi River’s water resources—once the biggest hurdle—have been resolved. This follows years of tension, particularly under former Governor Kawakatsu, who opposed any water outflow from the prefecture.
Governor Suzuki, who took office in May 2024, moved talks forward. JR Central’s plan to offset water losses by reducing intake at Tashiro Dam was finally accepted, including drought response measures and monitoring plans.

Other Issues Still Unresolved
Of 28 issues raised by Shizuoka, only water-related ones have been fully addressed. Discussions on biodiversity and excavated soil impacts remain incomplete. Just 3 of 17 biodiversity and 1 of 5 soil-related issues have reached agreement. Governor Suzuki has hinted that political decisions may be necessary if talks stall.

Construction Timeline: A New Estimate
Even if discussions wrap up soon, construction in Shizuoka won’t begin right away. JR Central estimates a 10-year process from groundbreaking to full operation, suggesting a potential opening in 2036 if work starts in 2026.
Delays Elsewhere: Not Just Shizuoka

Other sections are also facing delays:
Second Oi Tunnel (Gifu): Completion by March 2030
Sannogawa & Tone River Bridges (Yamanashi): Completion 5+ years after bidding in 2026
13 sections in Nagano: Delayed from 2026–2027 to 2028–2031
Gifu Prefecture Station: Completion moved to December 2031

As of July 4, 31 of 84 sections are confirmed to exceed the 2027 deadline. JR Central cites extended local negotiations and challenging geology. Further delays are likely as some segments are still being planned.

Strategic Delay Makes Sense
While critics say the 2027 plan was too optimistic, there's now no need to rush. Even if other parts are completed, they can't operate without the Shizuoka section. Delaying reduces the cost of maintaining idle infrastructure and helps address Japan’s labor shortage by spreading out work.

Former JR Central executive Mamoru Uno summed it up:
“Rushing now to meet 2027 isn’t rational. Some sections are already under strain due to rising costs and workforce shortages.”

A Chance to Rethink
Delays may offer new opportunities. Local governments hope to turn the maglev into an engine for regional growth. Yamanashi, for example, envisions connecting its maglev station to Mt. Fuji via a new tram line. That’s impossible by 2027—but potentially feasible with a later opening date.

Info based on https://toyokeizai.net/articles/-/888918 Accessed 2025-07-07