On 9th April 2025, the governors of the 29 Japanese prefectures submitted a special request to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba regarding the future of loss-making branch lines. They are calling for government support to maintain local railway lines, which are considered important social infrastructure for regional development. Specifically, they propose clarifying the future of the railway network at the national level, supporting operators in maintenance, and restoring damaged lines to service. Prime Minister Ishiba announced the establishment of a discussion forum on the issue.
