1960s: Builds first HSR in the world, also succumbs to political pressure and starts building unviable rural lines
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1970s: Quadruple-tracks main Tokyo commuter lines, builds second HSR
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1980s: Builds even more HSR but political cowardice finally catches up in the form of soaring debt -> breakup and privatization
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So, where did the debt come from? All sorts of things--but tipping point was decision to build rural lines. Cost control died there.
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Once it became clear that profitability wasn't a priority, costs began inflating rapidly on all sorts of projects, fares froze, etc
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The Tokaido Shinkansen was built as cheaply as possible without risking safety: $5m per km. Subsequent HSR ballooned in cost...
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Sanyo phase 1: $11m/km Sanyo phase 2: $15m/km Tohoku: $45m/km Joetsu: $50m/km
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This in spite of the fact that all other HSR corridors aren't nearly as busy as the Tokaido! But hey, when money's no object...
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i want to some day feel as much passion about something as you do for trains
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