Tobu Railway gives interim report on accident that killed 4 workers, avoids detailed explanation
It becomes clear that the watchdog is not instructed on the location of the guard, and is operated on a personal basis.
Quick Look
- Tobu Railway has submitted an interim report to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism regarding the collision with an express train that killed four workers.
- The details of the operation at the scene were revealed, but the company declined to discuss the details due to the impact on the investigation.
- Inadequacies in the safety management system have been pointed out.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
An accident occurred on the Tobu Railway tracks in which four workers were hit and killed by a limited express train. An interim report revealed that on-site work rules were not thoroughly enforced, and operations were being carried out in an individualized manner.
On the 30th, Tobu Railway submitted an interim report to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism regarding the accident in which four workers were killed in a collision with a limited express train, and then provided an explanation to media outlets. Facility Director Koichi Sato apologized, saying, ``We sincerely apologize for causing a tragic accident.'' The explanation, including a question-and-answer session, lasted two and a half hours, but he declined to discuss details.
Regarding the driver's testimony that he ``confirmed the yellow flag indicating the evacuation was complete,'' reporters asked questions about whether the watchman had actually shown the flag. Facilities Director Sato reiterated, ``We are refraining from doing so because it will impede the investigation.''
The interim report revealed the reality of individual operations on the ground. When asked whether such operations had become the norm, Facility Director Sato answered with a grim expression, ``Tobu is not aware of this.''
It became clear that the rules during work had not been thoroughly followed, and Transport Manager Shoji Kameyama, who was present, said with a somber look on his face, ``The Tobu Group as a whole must seriously address the safety of railway operations.''
Open Questions
- Did the lookout actually display a flag?
- How long has personal management been the norm?
