The former Governor of Shizuoka has controversially argued that the construction of the Linear Central Shinkansen is akin to death. The statement comes in response to ongoing concerns about the potential environmental impact of the massive infrastructural project. The governor's outspoken criticism mirrors wider public discontent within the region. The Linear Central Shinkansen construction project, managed by Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central), has been subject to increased scrutiny and pushback in recent years.

The Linear Central Shinkansen is a project that is vital for Japan's domestic transportation infrastructure. However, within Japan, there is a growing public concern regarding the environmental impact of large-scale infrastructure projects. The comment from the former governor reflects these common sentiments, especially in Shizuoka Prefecture. Also, these discussions are linked to the broader discourse about balancing development with environmental sustainability in Japan.

In the US or EU, such major public infrastructure projects would also be subject to similar concerns and scrutiny, especially in regards to their environmental impact. There would be a public discourse, political debate, and legal challenges before these projects could be approved. The level of importance attached to environmental considerations differs among countries, depending largely on the prevailing political climate and public sentiment.