The government will step up efforts next fiscal year to accelerate the development of emergency temporary evacuation facilities and is also considering introducing evacuation facilities designed to prepare for nuclear attacks and other threats, following Israel's example.
The government has included funding in its request for next fiscal year's budget to accelerate the development of emergency temporary evacuation facilities and announced plans to step up survey and research into conditions in other countries and municipalities. The introduction of evacuation facilities designed to prepare for nuclear attacks and other threats is also under consideration.
The Cabinet Secretariat has allocated approximately ¥220 million for the related budget and included ¥120 million for municipalities' survey and research costs in a newly established "Strong and Prosperous Japan" investment framework as part of investment in crisis management. The move is intended to promote development nationwide.
As of April last year, 61,142 emergency shelters had been designated nationwide. While facilities accessible to the entire population have been secured, development varies among municipalities. The population coverage rate for underground facilities is slightly above 5%.
The government's policy sets a target of 100% population coverage at the municipality level by 2030. Going forward, it will actively promote the use of private facilities such as subway stations, underground shopping areas and underground car parks. Research will also proceed into using underground facilities as evacuation options in the event of a nuclear attack, based on Switzerland's definition.