Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Fire sparks chaos on Tokyo metro as major lines are closed

Related: 7.2 magnitude earthquake hits Tokyo, Japan
  • A rare power outage caused widespread disruption to Tokyo's morning commute on Friday, halting services on several major rail lines.
  • East Japan Railway services, including parts of the Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku lines, were suspended, stranding thousands of passengers.
  • A fire was reported on the tracks near Tamachi station, with flames seen coming from a transformer, which contributed to the prolonged suspension.
  • The disruption led to intense crowding at major stations and forced passengers to find alternative routes, though no injuries were reported.
  • Authorities are investigating the connection between the power outage and the fire, with services expected to resume by 1pm local time.
In full

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in