Unusual Delay on Japanese Bullet Train Due to Snake Intrusion
While Japan's renowned bullet trains are known for their punctuality, a brief 17-minute delay was caused by a small snake making its way through a passenger carriage, a rare occurrence on the typically efficient railway system.
Japan's renowned high-speed bullet trains are known for their punctuality, rarely experiencing delays. However, even these efficient trains can be halted by unexpected visitors, such as a small snake making its way through a passenger carriage.
According to the Central Japan Railway Company, a commuter in Tokyo alerted station staff about a 40-centimeter (16-inch) snake spotted in a train carriage arriving from Nagoya. The unusual incident caused a brief delay of just 17 minutes.
The train bound for Osaka was supposed to leave but was canceled as a safety measure. Another train had to take its place, resulting in a delay. While short compared to other countries, it was considered significant in Japan where trains are known for their punctuality.
Fortunately, there were no injuries. However, more than 600 passengers had to deal with the inconvenience of the delay.
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The railway company told CNN that they are currently reviewing to determine the breed of the snake and how it got on board.
The bullet train in Japan, also known as Shinkansen, is famous for its efficiency and speeds reaching up to 320 kilometers per hour (200 mph). Commuters in Japan rely on its reliability for their daily travel.
In 2017, a conductor on one service, the Tsukuba Express, triggered a network apology after he departed 20 seconds early.
Editor's P/S:
The incident of a snake halting a high-speed bullet train in Japan is a testament to the country's renowned punctuality and efficiency. Despite their reputation for precision, even the most reliable systems can be disrupted by unexpected events. The 17-minute delay caused by the snake, though relatively minor in the grand scheme of things, highlights the importance of being prepared for any contingency.
The railway company's swift response and the lack of injuries or significant disruptions further demonstrate Japan's commitment to safety and passenger comfort. The investigation underway to determine the snake's origin and prevent similar incidents in the future is a proactive measure that underscores the country's dedication to maintaining the highest standards of transportation.
