On 19 November 2016, JR Hokkaido's Ppesident announced plans to rationalise its network by up to 1,237 km, or ~50% of the current network,[1] including the proposed conversion of the Senmo Main Line to third-sector operation; if local governments are not agreeable, the line may face closure.

The Rapid Shiretoko train runs between Abashiri and Kushiro, with one daily return working.

35 years after it closed the 17 km section of the Senmo line between Mashu - Shibecha was built on the formation of the Kushiro Railway.

- A 39 km 762 mm (2 ft 6 in) gauge line opened to Nakashibetsu in 1932.

In 1936 it was replaced by a 1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in) line, which was extended 40 km to Shibetsu, operating until 1989.