> So why exactly did they need to rewrite it in Rust?
The root comment links to a post literally about this, the post you're replying to lauded its content. Reading it sounds like a good idea. You can then still disagree, but the question you've asked is definitely answered there.
Let’s assume it was originally written in FORTRAN. Would you think it was a joke or serious?
The writing is on the wall for C++. They’re a little ahead of the curve, but rewriting in a well-liked modern language will likely benefit the health of the project’s contributor pipeline for years to come. There aren’t a lot of people choosing to learn C++ (or FORTRAN) these days.
Fortran has a modern version that codes are written in today in the scientific world. Heck, I write fortran myself and did so last night now that I realise it.
Do users still exist? Sure. Is it a healthy, thriving ecosystem with a promising future, increasing mindshare, and serious advantages over the alternatives? Not so much.
The root comment links to a post literally about this, the post you're replying to lauded its content. Reading it sounds like a good idea. You can then still disagree, but the question you've asked is definitely answered there.