In order to maintain the local public transportation network, JR Shikoku has applied to the government for approval of a plan to operate fares in an integrated manner with the largest bus company in Tokushima Prefecture.
This is the first time in Japan to apply by rail or bus across industries.
This is a plan by JR Shikoku and Tokushima Bus to improve the convenience of public transportation in the area. Specifically, the lines of both companies between Anan Station and Asakawa Station on the Mugi Line running in Tokushima Prefecture are parallel. The fare is managed integrally in the section.
When transferring from a train to a bus, both parties must pay the initial fare, but if the operation is integrated, if you transfer from a train to a bus, the JR fare will be applied and you can use it at a cheaper rate than now. It means that you will be able to do it.
On the 3rd, the two companies applied to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism for approval of a joint management plan based on the Antimonopoly Act Special Law so that even if the fare is adjusted between businesses, the law will not be touched.
If approved, we plan to start integrated fare operation from the 1st of next month, and this will be the first application in Japan for railways and buses across industries.
Mr. Sehiro Nishimaki, President of JR Shikoku, commented, "We are trying to improve the convenience of railways and buses, and we hope to continue to develop such efforts in the future."
In addition, Katsuya Kanahara, president of Tokushima Bus, commented, "We would like to play a role as a public transportation system while the shortage of drivers in the bus industry is becoming extremely serious."