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The inauguration of the Tohoku and Joetsu Shinkansen lines, conversion
of local airports to the use of jet aircraft, the further enhancement of expressway
networks, and the like are being successively instituted for the general development
of high speed traffic networks.
The total number of passengers utilizing the Tohoku and Joetsu Shinkansen
lines, inaugurated in 1982, is steadily increasing. Although airline routes
paralleling these routes are experiencing a drastic decrease in passenger traffic,
we are aware that the inception of these Shinkansen lines is inducing an extra
increase in overall traffic using the main trunk lines (Fig.
2).
The conversion of local airports to jet aircraft services is not only resulting
in a phenomenal increase in the volume of passenger and freight traffic handled,
but also has greatly affected the development of these regional economies.
As a long term objective for the 21st century, the increase of the number
of areas which are within a "day-trip's" radius necessitates the development
of high speed traffic networks, which requires the minimizing of differences
existing regionally within the scope of Shinkansen services, and within the
proximity of airports and other transport services.
(1) Preparation of Regional Traffic Programs
Since 1981, the Ministry of Transport has been preparing regional traffic
programs indicating the desired formation of regional traffic on the basis of
a long term overview of prefectural regional units. (21 prefecutures up to the
end of fiscal 1983)
(2) Improvement of urban railway services
To respond to the increase in demand for railway services in urban areas,
measures are being taken for the redoubling of track lines, the lengthening
of average trains, etc. as well as the construction of new lines. The results
are gradually being realized in the yearly reduction of congestion and related
problems. Efforts are also being expended to increase the level of services
rendered through the air conditioning of railway cars, for instance (Fig.
3).
(3) Development of new urban bus systems, etc.
In order to revive buses as an attractive transport mode, the Ministry of
Transport is promoting the improvement of bus services in urban areas by providing
subsidies to urban trunkline buses, new urban bus systems, etc.
The new urban bus systems which are composed of improvements in rolling stock,
terminal, and bus stop facilities, bus approaching indicators and computer control
of traffic, are aimed at the introduction of more efficient bus line operation
systems together with the provision of exclusive bus lanes. They were put into
operation in Tokyo and Niigata city in Marchﾕ84 and are gradually achieving
results through the increase of user convenience and comfort
(Fig. 4).
(4) Switching of specific local railway lines of the JNR
Local traffic facilities are experiencing exceedingly difficult operating
conditions due to the decrease in demand for transport. However these transport
facilities are the only means of transport for the local resident so various
methods are being devised to retain such facilities.
With respect to specific local railway lines of JNR, special provisions are
being made for the smooth changeover to buses and other transport modes. On
the other hand, to satisfy a very strong latent demand in certain local areas
to retain railway services, efforts are being made to transfer operation to
the third sector private railways.
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