23,000 Sign Petition Demanding Safety Reforms After Death of Blind Woman at JR Tsukumi Station [Podcast Episode]

By Barrier Free Japan

August 13 2025

ŌITA– A disability rights group has submitted over 23,000 signatures to JR Kyushu, urging an investigation and stronger safety measures following the death of a visually impaired woman at Tsukumi Station in Ōita Prefecture three years ago. The woman was struck by a limited express train during unstaffed hours in December 2022. The group, comprising people with visual and physical disabilities, also delivered a written statement reflecting concerns from visually impaired passengers. During a meeting at JR Kyushu’s Ōita branch, members called for clear rescue protocols for falls from platforms. Co-representative lawyer Yasuyuki Tokuda urged JR to take the voices of disabled passengers seriously.

Episode notes:

‘23,000 Sign Petition Demanding Safety Reforms After Death of Blind Woman at JR Tsukumi Station’:

23,000 Sign Petition Demanding Safety Reforms After Death of Blind Woman at JR Tsukumi Station