Tokyo, June 7
The Japanese government on Friday approved a plan to enhance the disaster resilience of the country's infrastructure over the next five years, with the project expected to cost more than 20 trillion yen (USD 139 billion). Kyodo News reported.
Focusing on measures to address aging infrastructure, the plan specifies 326 measures to be taken by government bodies from fiscal 2026 through 2030, while regional authorities bear part of the costs.
The approval by the Cabinet comes in light of prolonged water outages following a powerful earthquake that devastated the Noto Peninsula on New Year's Day in 2024, and the formation of a massive sinkhole in Yashio in Saitama Prefecture, neighboring Tokyo, which is believed to have been caused by sewer pipe corrosion.
According to the plan, 10.6 trillion yen will be allocated for the maintenance of vital services, which include aging infrastructure, such as transportation, communication, and energy.
All sewer pipes with corrosion or damage that could lead to accidents will be repaired by fiscal 2030.
The repair rate of the approximately 92,000 bridges managed by the central and local governments that require urgent attention will be raised from 55 per cent in fiscal 2023 to 80% in fiscal 2030, with the aim of full completion in fiscal 2051.
Meanwhile, 5.8 trillion yen will be used for disaster prevention infrastructure, including erosion control dams to prevent landslides and river embankments amid increasingly severe flooding caused by climate change.
An additional 1.8 trillion yen goes to enhancing disaster preparedness through measures, including installing air conditioners at schools that serve as evacuation centres. (ANI/WAM)
— ANI
Reader Comments
Japan's long-term planning is impressive! In India, we often react after disasters strike rather than preparing in advance. Our cities need similar infrastructure upgrades, especially for monsoon flooding. Hope our policymakers take notes 🇮🇳
That's a huge budget! But considering Japan's earthquake risks, it makes sense. I visited Tokyo last year - their infrastructure is already so advanced. Wonder how much India spends comparatively on disaster resilience? 🤔
While Japan focuses on infrastructure, we're still struggling with basic road repairs in many cities. Maybe we should collaborate with Japanese engineers - their bullet train technology is coming to India, why not disaster management expertise too?
The part about school evacuation centers is thoughtful. During Chennai floods, many schools became shelters but lacked basic facilities. Japan's approach shows how developed nations plan for citizen welfare at every level. We need this vision!
₹11.5 lakh crore equivalent! That's more than our defense budget. While important, India has different priorities - we must balance development with disaster preparedness. But yes, our cities need better drainage systems urgently.
Their 2051 target shows amazing long-term commitment. In India, projects often get delayed or funds misused. Maybe we need stricter accountability like Japan has. Their public works are always top quality ðŸ‘
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