Tokyo's new Fukutoshin subway line, now that it is up and running, is serving a vital social purpose as the butt of very funny jokes for Japanese comedians! No wonder -- traveling from the station that opened near me is costlier and slower than previously existing subway and train lines. Other than perhaps reducing crowding, it is hard to see what is so useful about the new line since it mainly mimics the other routes.
The new subway is evidence that Japan is overly developed but lacking in minimal rational planning. While China is investing in green spaces, zero pollution and ecologically sustainable communities, Japan's construction industry bumbles along sucking up taxpayers' hard-earned income for questionable and unimaginative purposes.
In 2002, Democratic Party of Japan member Koki Ishii was murdered by an ultranationalist criminal for what some believe was Ishii's role in uncovering the wasteful governmental use of trillions of yen in connection with the construction industry and shady business dealings. The Ishiis of this world are sorely missed when it comes to speaking out against wasteful public works spending. In the meantime, be sure to enjoy the ride folks, you paid for it!
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