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New Shizuoka Governor Suzuki criticizes JR Tokai for not reporting a fault directly below a construction site for the linear motor train project: “It undermines trust”

At a press conference on the 10th, Shizuoka Prefecture Governor Yasutomo Suzuki expressed his dissatisfaction with JR Tokai's failure to report to the prefecture the possibility of a fault running directly beneath the planned disposal site for excavated soil from the construction of the linear Chuo Shinkansen in Shizuoka City, saying, “This undermines the relationship of trust between us.” He also called on JR to “provide all the information it has.”
At a special committee meeting held by the prefecture on the 6th, a member pointed out that there was a fault directly below the location where the waste soil was to be placed. JR Tokai explained that they became aware of the possibility of a fault around 2018, but that they had not reported it as it would not have affected the plan or design for placing the waste soil.
With regard to the linear motor train, a drop in water levels was confirmed in wells near the construction site in Gifu Prefecture, but JR's report to the prefecture was delayed.

Info based on https://www.sankei.com/article/20240910 ... EGYRR3PRM/ Accessed: 2024-09-12

リニア静岡工区、知事交代で協議進展　工事着工へ手続き申請も射程
Leadership Change Fuels Progress in Shizuoka's Linear Shinkansen Section, Bringing Construction Closer to Reality

Talks between JR Tokai and Shizuoka Prefecture regarding the Linear Chuo Shinkansen project have made progress after a change in the prefectural leadership. In mid-September, the new governor, Yasutomo Suzuki, approved a preliminary borehole survey for the tunnel construction. This marks a significant shift, as the previous governor, Heita Kawakatsu, opposed the project due to environmental concerns, especially regarding the impact on the Oi River.

Suzuki’s appointment as governor in May led to renewed dialogue, with JR Tokai and Shizuoka agreeing to move forward cautiously. Borehole drilling has already approached within 300 meters of the Shizuoka border, a previously restricted zone under Kawakatsu. During a national monitoring meeting in August, officials reported that JR Tokai and Shizuoka reached consensus on some key environmental concerns, such as the reanalysis of water flow changes in local streams.

Suzuki's proactive stance has led to a significant increase in discussions, with 34 meetings held since June. The focus now shifts to administrative procedures needed for construction, such as meeting natural environment conservation laws and addressing local concerns about ecological impacts. JR Tokai will need to continue close communication with local stakeholders to address these issues and secure public support for the project.

Info based on Japanese Media reports. https://www.sankei.com/article/20241001 ... EY5VYRY2E/ Accessed 2024-10-31