After decades in development, Japan is ready to begin construction on their first commercial maglev train, which will eventually run between Tokyo and Osaka at speeds of up to 313 miles per hour.
The maglev will be built in stages, running first from Tokyo to Nagoya in 2027 and eventually on to Osaka in 2045. The Japanese ministry has instructed JR Rail to build the maglev on a track that is straight as possible for safety and speed, according to the Environment Service News:
"In December, JR Tokai expects to begin an environmental assessment of the route running through the Akaishi Mountains, northwest of Mount Fuji. The company says construction is planned to start in 2014.
Much of the project's 9 trillion yen budget is needed to construct the tunnels through which the trains will run for more than 60 percent of the entire line."
FULL STORY: Japan Flashes Green Signal for Maglev Train Line
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