REPORTS ON DISASTER RESPONSE OF EXPRESSWAYS IN KUMAMOTO PREFECTURE, JAPAN, DUE TO THE TORRENTIAL RAIN IN JULY 2020

Abstract

 In recent years, unprecedented torrential rains have caused flood damage in many parts of Japan. Even under such severe conditions, expressways are required to work as "roads of life". The torrential rain that occurred in July 2020 caused severe damage mainly in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. Due to this rain, though the expressway was not closed for a long period of time, some damages were caused, such as the lifting of concrete pavement of a tunnel and collapse of the slope. West Nippon Expressway Company Limited (NEXCO-West Company), which manages this section of the expressway, worked to restore the road as quickly as possible to minimize the impact on customers. In addition, in order to support the stricken areas, emergency gates for the residents and emergency vehicles has been opened and free tolls between the areas has been provided. This report summarizes these measures implemented by NEXCO-West Company.