A Message from the Newly Appointed President
of RTRI
Hiroumi Soejima
President
Dear Readers,
It has already been 10years since the privatization
and division of the Japanese National Railways.
As part of this evolution, RTRI was founded
as the sole research and development institution of railway technology
in Japan. I am very happy to say that RTRI has contributed in
various technological aspects to the railway industries of Japan
including the JR companies, through activities for speedup of
railway operation, safety and environmental issues, and activities
in the aftermath of the Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake.
Since 1987, the inaugural year of this institute,
the former president Mr.Ozeki, with his strong insight, led RTRI
in the direction for which RTRI should set out, through there
were many uncertainties of the management of the newly born research
organization. I am genuinely admiring his achievements again at
this opportunity.
During this period of 10years, in addition
to the R&D achievements, RTRI has established a firm framework
for future activities, such as, the opening of the Yamanashi maglev
Test Line, the installation of the Maibara large-size, low-noise
wind tunnel, the inauguration of the Railway Technology Promotion
Centre and expansion of contract R&D business.
On the Yamanashi Maglev Test Line, the centerpiece
among these, we marked the long-awaited official inauguration
of test run on April 3rd 1997, which symbolises that
we have entered the next stage of proving our full ability and
value.
Being the president of RTRI at this important
and crucial moment, I realise again the momentousness of my responsibility.
I am sincerely looking forward to your warm
support and encouragement.
Thank you very much.