On September 8, rail fans were shocked on social media. Graffiti was spotted on a Tokyu train. And not just one or two marks—there were several all along the sides of the 6020–6050 series EMU operating on the Ōimachi Line. What happened? Was it some kind of nasty prank?
Thankfully, ITmedia interviewed Tokyu Railways, and a surprising truth came to light. These weren’t graffiti at all, but part of a formal installation by Tokyu. Why? To improve the sensitivity of the automatic platform gate sensors! As I wrote before, the 6020–6050 series only debuted this May. Their bodies were still sparkling new… but apparently the shiny finish reduced the sensors’ accuracy. Of course, safe train operation is essential for any railway company, but it was still shocking to learn that spray left visible marks on the train’s exterior. According to Tokyu, they will work to make the residues less noticeable.
That’s reassuring. But I still have a question. The 6020–6050 series is the “little brother” of the 6020 series. As far as I know, no such issue has occurred with the older 6020 series. The only difference is the train formation: the former is a seven-car set, while the latter is a five-car set. That’s it. For an ordinary rail fan like me, it’s a difficult mystery to understand. To the engineers of Tokyu Railways… please restore the 6020–6050 series to its beautiful original state. I’m rooting for you!
