Key Facts
• August 13, 9:30 PM: Electrical system failure halts Osaka Metro’s Central Line.
• 10:10 PM: Partial service resumes between Yumeshima and Cosmo Square stations.
• Central Line connects directly to the Osaka-Kansai Expo, handling 70% of visitor transport.
• Visitors stranded at Yumeshima station and East Gate plaza, some visibly exhausted.
• Reports of individuals carried on stretchers; announcements urged people to return to the venue.
• A Kyoto woman expressed concern over the crowd during the Obon holiday.
• A 73-year-old Osaka resident lamented delays, stating entry alone took an hour.
Summary
An electrical system failure on August 13 disrupted Osaka Metro’s Central Line, the primary transport link to the Osaka-Kansai Expo. The suspension, starting at 9:30 PM, left many visitors stranded at Yumeshima station and the East Gate plaza. Partial service resumed at 10:10 PM between Yumeshima and Cosmo Square stations, but delays caused significant inconvenience. Some visitors were seen sitting in exhaustion, while others required stretchers. Announcements urged attendees to return to the venue as security managed the situation. The Central Line, responsible for 70% of Expo transport, faced heavy strain due to the Obon holiday crowds. A Kyoto woman expressed concern over the situation, while a 73-year-old Osaka resident described the ordeal as exhausting. The incident highlights the critical role of the Central Line in managing Expo traffic.
