By MIZUKI ENOMOTO/ Staff Writer
July 26, 2022 at 17:55 JST
JR Kyushu’s limited express Sonic train, left, and Kamome train (Asahi Shimbun file photo)
Kyushu Railway Co. (JR Kyushu) will suspend 120 limited-express train services over 10 days from July 27 as novel coronavirus infections spread among crew members, the company announced July 25.
Ten of the 64 limited-express Sonic trains between Hakata and Oita stations per day will be suspended through Aug. 5, along with two of the 52 limited-express Kamome trains between Hakata and Nagasaki stations.
Eleven drivers and conductors working on the Sonic or Kamome trains contracted the novel coronavirus, and seven were in close contact with those infected as of July 25, according to JR Kyushu.
JR Kyushu had adjusted the shift schedules by substituting employees’ holidays and bringing in employees from other departments who had served as crew members.
With the recent rise in COVID-19 cases showing no sign of abating, however, the company said it can no longer secure enough crew members to maintain the services.
JR Kyushu had suspended its services previously due to the state of emergency or not having enough passengers, but this is the first time the company has suspended services due to staff shortages.
JR Kyushu said it will refund tickets for people who already booked now-canceled limited-express trains.
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