Japan maglev train project still stalled by environmental concerns

Bitter memories of a tunneling misadventure a century ago resurface

20210517 linear motor car

In October 2020, JR Tokai unveiled the latest maglev technology for its ambitious Linear Chuo Shinkansen line linking Tokyo and Nagoya. (Photo by Yuki Nakao)

TAKANORI OKABE, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- The Linear Chuo Shinkansen project of Central Japan Railway, the train operator better known as JR Tokai, has run into vehement objections from local authorities along the planned line.

Shizuoka Prefecture has refused to approve the start of tunnel work in Japan's Southern Alps on the grounds that it would be detrimental to local water resources.

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