Kurauchi and Rikuzen-Koizumi stations begin operation. The freight line between Motoyoshi and Minami-Kesennuma is abolished. Kesennuma Line merges with the Yanaizu Line and runs from Maeyachi to Kesennuma. The freight line runs from Minami-Kesennuma to Kesennuma-Minato. November 1, 1979: The remaining freight line is abolished and Kesennuma-Minato station ceases operation. April 1, 1987: Kesennuma Line becomes part of JR East. March 22, 1997: Ōya station is renamed Ōya-Kaigan station March 11, 2011: Line closed following major damage in 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. April 29, 2011: Rail service restored on Maeyachi - Yanaizu segment. May 7, 2012: Local authorities agree to BRT service to Kesennuma. August 20, 2012: BRT roadway completed between Rikuzen-Hashikami and Saichi. December 22, 2012: BRT service commences between Yanaizu and Kesennuma. References External links A set of 11 videos showing a train trip along the entire Kesennuma Line, in 2009. Much of the track and scenery seen here were destroyed by the 2011 tsunami. Lines of East Japan Railway Company Rail transport in Miyagi Prefecture 1067 mm gauge railways in Japan Railway lines opened in 1956 1956 establishments in Japan Bus rapid transit in Japan