Japanese transport officials are predicting that the country will be short of over 30,000 bus drivers by fiscal 2030.

Already, a lack of drivers is forcing operators nationwide to cut their number of regular routes.

The Nihon Bus Association says 121,000 drivers are needed nationwide in the current fiscal year through March. But operators are short of around 10,000.

The association believes the situation is set to worsen. The number of drivers is predicted to dwindle to 93,000 in fiscal 2030 as their age advances, with the shortfall rising to 36,000.

The shortage is causing service reductions not just in the regions but large cities as well.

nhk