Nothing can be certain, but this seems to be much ado about nothing. Are there any big issues with regards to maintenance of the Shinkasen line (which has been in operation far longer period) that make it prohibitive to operate?Saw some posts saying that China's HSR network is a time bomb in terms of economics because of the mounting costs of maintenance.
Even assuming the HSR has more benefits than costs due to positive externalities, is it true that costs of maintenance will increase?
Is it possible that as time goes on maintenance cost actually decreases instead due to improved tech, increased energy generation, higher efficacy etc?