Ten people were reportedly hospitalised after an unknown substance was sprayed inside a moving train near Tokyo on Sunday. The incident occurred on 10 May at approximately 4:30 PM local time on an East Japan Railway Company (JR East) train travelling on the Tokaido Line.
Details of the Incident
Passengers complained of a strange, pepper-like smell, coughing, throat irritation, and breathing difficulties. The train made an emergency stop at Kawasaki station, where firefighters and emergency personnel inspected the carriage. Despite the reports, no harmful gas was detected, and authorities have not confirmed if any substance was actually sprayed.
Service Disruption
JR East temporarily suspended inbound Tokaido Line services between Yokohama and Shinagawa following the incident. The affected passengers were attended to by medical teams, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the symptoms.
This incident highlights the challenges of ensuring passenger safety on Japan's extensive rail network. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
