長崎電気軌道株式会社

On July 26, 2022, between the Shin-Nakagawa and Hotarujaya stations on the Hotarujaya branch line, a train driver operated a vehicle into a switching point without confirming the stop signal of the track signal, resulting in the front and rear bogies entering different tracks. The brake hose detached, rendering braking impossible. The train then reversed on an upward slope, collided with a following train, and injured two passengers. Following this incident, a safety audit was conducted from July 27 to 29, 2022, which identified necessary improvements. The company was instructed to implement measures including verifying signals, ensuring proper driver training, and preventing recurrence. The company must report on the measures taken by November 6, 2022. The driver was found to have operated the train without confirming the track signal despite instructions to do so, and some drivers had not received proper onboard training as per regulations. The incident highlighted the need for thorough verification of safety procedures and operational safety measures to prevent brake failure and collisions. If the company fails to improve safety management or commits further violations, authorities may order business improvements based on relevant laws, including the Railway Business Act and the Railway Act, citing risks to transportation safety and public interest.