Japan Considers Duplicating Government Hubs Amid Seismic Risks

Why earthquake-prone Japan wants to set up a second capital. (See the linked source for details.)

Source

Indian Express — Explained →

Quick Revision

Prelims-testable facts

01Japan is considering setting up a second capital to mitigate the risks posed by Tokyo's vulnerability to earthquakes and tsunamis.
02A bill approved by lawmakers in July created a legal framework to designate one or more regions as a backup capital if Tokyo is severely affected by an earthquake.
03The government has identified two scenarios considered especially likely: a Nankai Trough earthquake or an earthquake in the subduction zone around the Japan Trench and the Chishima Trench.
04A new Disaster Management Agency is being established to address delays in mitigation efforts and growing earthquake risks.
05Regional bases are planned to be established as part of disaster preparedness measures.
06The government aims to promote the establishment of a sub-capital 'in preparation for large-scale disasters that could significantly impact people's lives and the economy'.
07A Nankai Trough earthquake is considered one of the two most likely scenarios, with potential impacts on Tokyo and surrounding areas.

Trap alerts

Most people think Japan wants to set up a second capital because of its economic importance, but actually it's due to the risk posed by earthquakes and tsunamis.
Most people think the new Disaster Management Agency will be responsible for general disaster management, but actually it's focused on addressing delays in mitigation efforts and growing earthquake risks.

Mains Practice Question

Critically examine the rationale behind Japan's proposal to establish a second capital city, considering its seismic vulnerabilities and potential economic benefits.

250 words

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Prelims Practice MCQs

Single facteasy

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is responsible for which aspect of Japan's development?

A.Overseeing the development of new cities
B.Managing the country's railway network
C.Coordinating disaster relief efforts
D.Regulating environmental policies

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is responsible for overseeing the development of new cities, including the proposed second capital city.

Statement I & IIhard

Consider the following two statements: Statement-I: The Japanese government has proposed setting up a second capital city to mitigate the risks of earthquakes. Statement-II: This proposal is due to Tokyo's location in a seismically active region and its history of suffering significant damage from earthquakes. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct but Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
C.Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

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