Image Credits: The Star
On September 4th at approximately 9:10 a.m., emergency services received a report of a significant road collapse on National Route 16 in Ichihara City, Chiba Prefecture. The incident has led to the closure of all four lanes of this major thoroughfare, but fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
The affected stretch of road is situated in a bay area characterized by its dense cluster of factories and businesses, and lies less than two kilometers from JR Goi Station. The collapse spans the entire width of the road, prompting an immediate response from local authorities and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). The Chiba National Highway Office is currently spearheading an investigation into the incident, with preliminary suspicions pointing towards heavy rainfall as a contributing factor.
According to the Chiba Prefecture’s rain gauge, the area experienced intense precipitation early on September 3rd, recording 125 mm of rainfall within just two hours. This heavy downpour likely exacerbated the underlying issues leading to the road’s collapse. In response to the severe weather conditions, the city issued an evacuation order on the same day to ensure the safety of local residents.
On the afternoon of September 4th, crews began the process of removing the damaged asphalt using heavy machinery. Restoration efforts are underway, but officials have indicated that it will take some time before the road is fully repaired and reopened to traffic.
As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on determining whether the heavy rains were solely responsible or if other factors may have contributed to the collapse. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.