The governors of Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures recently visited the Southern Alps Tunnel in Hayakawa, Yamanashi Prefecture to inspect a boring survey being conducted for the planned Linear Chuo Shinkansen maglev line. Former Shizuoka Governor Heita Kawakatsu had previously expressed concerns about potential groundwater outflow and had not approved the surveys. However, after Yasutomo Suzuki won the Shizuoka gubernatorial election in May, the prefecture’s stance changed.
In June, the governments of Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures, along with Central Japan Railway Co., reached an agreement to proceed with boring surveys in the Yamanashi section of the tunnel while also estimating water flow from the Shizuoka side into Yamanashi.
Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki expressed his hope that residents from both prefectures would gain a better understanding of the situation following their inspection. During their visit, the governors observed a pilot tunnel used to assess geological conditions and received information from JR Tokai officials regarding water overflow from excavation areas.
According to JR Tokai, there was no excessive amount of overflowing water during this survey. If water levels exceed control limits, further surveys would be suspended. In response to this information, Suzuki reassured residents by stating that there was nothing for them to worry about at present.
these inspections aim to address concerns related to groundwater outflow and ensure that all necessary precautions are taken during construction on this important transportation project.