Japan Develops Emergency Evacuation Plan for Islands Near Taiwan

Japan plans to evacuate 120,000 residents and tourists from islands near Taiwan in case of a Chinese invasion threat. The evacuation will utilize both military and private transportation over six days, focusing on community cohesion and health support during the operation.

Japan has developed an emergency evacuation plan targeting 120,000 individuals from remote islands near Taiwan in response to potential Chinese aggression. The plan, released on March 27, focuses on five municipalities in the Sakishima Islands of Okinawa Prefecture, including Ishigaki and Miyako, aiming to transport approximately 20,000 evacuees daily over six days.

The evacuation will utilize a coordinated effort involving vessels from the Self-Defense Forces, Japan Coast Guard, and private ferries, transporting evacuees to Yamaguchi Prefecture and other locations in the Kyushu region. Additionally, local municipalities have prepared to accommodate around 110,000 residents, excluding tourists, within the first month following the evacuation’s initiation.

Evacuees will travel via chartered buses from Fukuoka and Kagoshima airports to designated hotels, with measures in place to keep communities intact by housing residents from the same elementary schools together. To support this operation, hotels will provide meals, and local retailers will assist if necessary. Health consultation desks will also be established by public health nurses during the evacuation period.

The Japanese government is advancing this plan under the Civil Protection Law and reinforcing defense in the Nansei Islands with Ground SDF deployments. Although publicly denying the evacuation strategy is tied to a specific event, officials privately recognize its alignment with context surrounding Taiwan. The Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yoshimasa Hayashi, emphasized the need for improved accommodations for individuals with special requirements if the evacuation extends beyond one month.

Japan’s evacuation strategy reflects a proactive stance amidst geopolitical tensions in the region. With a structured plan for relocating 120,000 residents and tourists, the government aims for a swift and organized response to potential threats. By enabling municipal support and establishing health resources, Japan is preparing to safeguard its citizens effectively.

Original Source: www.asahi.com