A little more than three years after the devastating earthquake paralyzed the northeast, coastal communities shattered by the ensuing tsunami are slowly returning to normal. Shops that were destroyed are gradually reopening. Residents forced to evacuate to distant parts are returning to their hometowns.
And soon, communities along the coast of Iwate Prefecture will take another step toward recovery: Sanriku Railway Co. is set to restart full-scale operation of its South Rias and North Rias lines.
Train runs are set to resume on a 15-km stretch between Yoshihama and Kamaishi stations on the southern line Saturday, and on a 10.5-km stretch between Omoto and Tanohata stations on the northern line Sunday.