December 30

Events - Transportation & Infrastructure

1927day.year

The Ginza Line, the first subway line in Asia, opens in Tokyo, Japan.

Tokyo inaugurates the Ginza Line, Asia's first subway, revolutionizing urban transportation in Japan.
The Ginza Line began operation on December 30, 1927, connecting Ueno and Asakusa via central Tokyo. As Asia's first subway line, it introduced modern underground rail transit to the continent. Engineered by Tobu Railway, the line featured compact trains and innovative track designs to navigate tight city streets. Its success spurred rapid expansion of Tokyo's metro network, easing congestion and shaping urban development. Today, the Ginza Line remains a vital artery, celebrated for its historic significance and continuous service.
1927 Ginza Line subway line
2009day.year

A segment of the Lanzhou–Zhengzhou–Changsha pipeline ruptures in Shaanxi, China, and approximately 150,000 L (40,000 US gal) of diesel oil flows down the Wei River before finally reaching the Yellow River.

A pipeline break unleashed 150,000 liters of diesel into China’s Wei and Yellow Rivers, sparking an environmental crisis.
On December 30, 2009, a section of the Lanzhou–Zhengzhou–Changsha pipeline ruptured near Xianyang in Shaanxi Province. An estimated 150,000 liters of diesel oil spilled into the Wei River, creating a toxic slick. The contamination spread downstream and eventually tainted the Yellow River, threatening water supplies for millions. Emergency teams worked around the clock to deploy booms, absorbent materials, and water treatment efforts. The disaster exposed vulnerabilities in China’s aging pipeline infrastructure. Public outcry led to government pledges for stricter inspections and environmental safeguards. The incident underscored the balance between industrial growth and ecological protection.
2009 Lanzhou–Zhengzhou–Changsha pipeline Shaanxi diesel oil flows down Wei River Yellow River