2. Strengthening crisis management systems to build a safe and secure Tokyo

The prerequisite for providing such government services is solid crisis management. We cannot anticipate growth for Tokyo or Japan if the safe and secure foundation for the basic activities of Tokyo citizens is shaken. Although the situation currently appears to be stabilizing, there is always the risk that a resurgence of Covid-19 will occur.

Last month, an earthquake measuring an Upper 5 on the Japanese seismic intensity scale was felt in Tokyo. The effects of the climate crisis are also becoming more apparent in the form of typhoons and heavy rain storms that wreak havoc each year. We must also plan for the possibility that any combination of these crises could strike simultaneously, at any time, and ensure that we are fully prepared for any scenario. We will steadily push ahead with initiatives to create a resilient Tokyo where citizens can lead active lives without anxiety or fear.

Response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

First, there is the immediate crisis before us, COVID-19. A new variant, Omicron, is rapidly spreading worldwide. We must approach this development with an abundance of caution. Therefore, yesterday, I placed a request for swift implementation of border control measures with the national government. Under the national government’s new infection level classification system, which places greater weight on the level of strain being felt by the health care system, if signs of a resurgence are detected, we will take proactive steps and mobilize all of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s resources with the aim to contain the spread of the virus at the earliest possible time.

Reinforcing and enhancing the health care provision system

We will build up the health care provision system to ensure that it does not falter over the year-end and New Year’s holidays or when there is a resurgence of cases. We will substantially increase the number of rooms secured at designated hotels for recovery, and promote the use of antibody cocktail treatments by doctors making house calls. Furthermore, we will promote the return of nurses and others to work and the development of human resources, as well as the use of digital technology, such as the introduction of wearable devices for monitoring one’s health condition, among other efforts, to maximize the strengths of health care in Tokyo.

Promoting vaccinations

Vaccinations are our best weapon against COVID-19. We will leverage the TOKYO Vaction APP service to encourage as many people as possible to get vaccinated. In a study conducted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, it was revealed that the level of antibodies, which are expected to be effective in preventing infection, greatly decrease about seven months after receiving the second vaccination dose. To prevent a future resurgence of infections, it is extremely important that we steadily advance the rollout of the third dose. Starting next month, we will begin offering booster shots to those working in fields such as health care at mass vaccination centers. And, in cooperation with municipalities and others, we will also establish systems for smooth provision of vaccinations to ensure that we are firmly on the path to containing the spread of the virus.

Reviewing damage estimates for a major earthquake that directly strikes Tokyo

Next, we must consider the threat of earthquakes. About ten years have passed since the formulation of damage estimates from a major earthquake that directly strikes Tokyo and the predicted Nankai Trough Earthquake. We have been promoting every possible measure to support the safety and security of the people of Tokyo, including measures to make the city more seismic and fire resistant. Taking into account information, such as what we have learned from the earthquakes that have occurred across Japan during this period of time and the increasing threat of a Nankai Trough Earthquake, we have recently commenced studies with an eye to revising damage estimates. We aim to compile the results by spring of next year and have them reflected in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area Disaster Management Plan.

Protecting the citizens of Tokyo from flood damage

And, now, moving on to floods. Bolstering preparations for the growing threat of a major flood in the eastern low-lying areas of Tokyo is an urgent issue, as the area is expected to sustain severe damage should such an event occur. Along with completing work on river facilities to improve resistance to earthquakes and water intrusion, including along the Onagi River, we will also formulate the next development plan within the year and expand the area covered. In addition, to further reinforce the functions of shoreline protection facilities at the Port of Tokyo in anticipation of sea level rise and other effects of climate change, we will advance the study of revisions to the current plan.

It is also necessary to speed up measures for urban development that “creates higher ground,” such as establishing groups of buildings where evacuation space is secured in the upper floors. The Funabori district of Edogawa-ku is a model for such development. Working with the municipality and others, we will promote initiatives, including commencing the study of development in the Funabori district utilizing the national government’s support scheme, the first project to do so in Japan. And, in addition to vigorously securing evacuation locations across the region, we will further strengthen systems for cooperation with municipalities and encourage the use of varied evacuation strategies tailored to each Tokyo citizen’s individual risk. Truly united as one in Tokyo, we will engage in disaster preparedness measures.

Acceleration of utility pole removal

Lastly, there is the removal of utility poles. On Oshima Island, which sustained heavy damage due to Typhoon No. 15 (Typhoon Faxai) in 2019, we completed restoration work in the Sashikiji and Habu Port areas as quickly as possible. At the start of the new year, we will formulate a new plan for the elimination of utility poles in the Tokyo Islands and speed up initiatives for the islands, including advancing intensive projects on each of the islands.