TOKYO : The Japanese government has decided to apply the post-disaster livelihood reconstruction aid law across Kumamoto Prefecture, following a powerful earthquake that struck the southwestern region late last month.
Under the law, families whose homes were destroyed or partially damaged in the July 28 earthquake will be eligible for financial assistance of up to ¥3 million. The aid can be used for housing construction, repairs and rental expenses.
Government Moves to Speed Up Relief
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced the decision on Monday during a meeting of the government’s emergency disaster response headquarters at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tokyo.
With nearly two weeks having passed since the earthquake, Takaichi instructed Disaster Management Minister Jiro Akama to accelerate the issuance of disaster damage certificates.
These certificates are required to determine the extent of damage to homes and enable affected families to receive reconstruction assistance under the law.
Earthquake Recorded at Maximum Intensity
The magnitude 7.1 earthquake registered seismic intensity 7, the highest level on Japan’s seismic intensity scale, in some municipalities across Kumamoto Prefecture.
The powerful earthquake caused widespread damage and disrupted transportation infrastructure in parts of the region.
Kyushu Expressway Access to Be Restored
Takaichi also said that emergency vehicles will be able to use the entire Kyushu Expressway from Tuesday after sections of the highway were closed following the earthquake.
Full access for general vehicles is expected to be restored later this month, depending on recovery work.
Railway Restoration Timeline Expected
Meanwhile, Kyushu Railway Company (JR Kyushu) is expected to announce within this month when suspended railway sections will reopen.
The government is continuing to coordinate relief, infrastructure restoration and reconstruction measures as authorities assess the full impact of the earthquake.
Bottom line: Japan’s decision to extend the reconstruction aid law to all of Kumamoto Prefecture will allow eligible households with damaged homes to access up to ¥3 million in assistance for rebuilding, repairs or housing costs.
