Single-Car Train Plunges From Bridge on Akita Nairiku Line, Driver Injured

A single-car train derailed and fell from a bridge in northern Japan early on 12 December after striking a fallen tree, leaving the driver injured but no passengers harmed.

The incident occurred at 5:07 a.m. on the Akita Nairiku Line in Kita-Akita, with the train traveling between Arase and Kayakusa stations. The impact caused the train to leave the tracks and plunge approximately 4 to 5 meters from the bridge, according to the transport ministry.

Railway staff became concerned when the train failed to reach its final destination, Kakunodate Station, by its scheduled arrival time of 6:16 a.m. Attempts to contact the driver were unsuccessful, prompting police to be alerted around 6:50 a.m. upon discovering the overturned vehicle.

The driver, in his 50s, was rescued from the wreck and taken to hospital with a jaw injury. Authorities confirmed that his injuries are not life-threatening and that he remained conscious and able to communicate.

Police noted that the crash site was located on a gentle curve, which may have contributed to the derailment. The Japan Transport Safety Board has dispatched two railway accident investigators to examine the scene.

Image: Akita Nairiku Railway