Sustainable Mobility in Utsunomiya

The Japanese city of Utsunomiya, with an estimated population of 520,000, is the prefectural capital of Tochigi about 100 kilometres north of Tokyo. Seven years ago, Utsunomiya introduced a new light-rail system which is largely integrated into the road traffic on a 9.1 km long route. By Jens Meinecke.

One highlight of architectural interest is the construction of a long viaduct bridge over the river Kinu. The double-track line runs from Utsunomiya railway station to the large Canon manufacturing plant and Honda technical design centre in the east of the city, and has a total length of 14.6 km, including the depot. The tram connects major transportation hubs, shopping centres, universities and more, every six to ten minutes.

Utsunomiya’s comfortable stop stations offer barrier-free access. Part of the line is already in test operation. Test runs will follow on further segments at the beginning of May. The entire line will be in operation when these test runs have been positively completed. The operator expects a large number of passengers. Japanese transport authorities are known for their reliability, punctuality, and environmentally-friendliness. Utsunomiya has the second-highest urban motorization level in Japan and promotes the use of sustainable transportation. Overall, Utsunomiya‘s new light-rail system has improved mobility and offers citizens and visitors a convenient transportation option.

HANNING & KAHL has supplied components for the infrastructure along the new light line – including point controllers, point machines and track-installation material. The 17 new low-floor vehicles also have a HANNING & KAHL transponder and braking system fitted.

Good prospects for the future: plans are already underfoot to extend the line network.