## (x) Japan Coast Guard Initiatives

To elucidate the physical mechanism of huge earthquakes, observations of seafloor crustal movements are conducted on the landward slope of the major trenches along the Pacific side of Japan such as the Japan Trench and Nankai Trough where the large earthquakes have repeatedly occurred. To monitor crustal movements GNSS observations are also conducted in coastal areas and the Izu Islands.

## (xi) Geospatial Information Authority of Japan Initiatives

## (A) Observing Crustal Movements and Strengthening Monitoring Frameworks

Across the nation and earthquake disaster prevention measure regions, the monitoring of crustal movements is boosted by continuous GNSS observations at about 1,300 GNSS-based control stations, GNSS surveying, and leveling (GEONET). Also, monitoring of ground surface deformation crustal movements started using the interferometric SAR of the Advanced Land Observing Satellite “DAICHI-2”.

## (B) Research on Natural Disasters Resulting From Earthquakes

From the results of geodetic observations, such as GNSS, SAR interferometry and geodetic leveling, the mechanism of earthquake occurrence is being elucidated and research is being conducted to improve observations and analysis. We are engaging in research and development work and trial operations as concerns the rapid provision of information during disasters through analytical processes that combine basic geospatial information corresponding to Japanese territory and earthquake intensity. Additionally, for exchanging information on surveys, observations and research outcomes regarding earthquake prediction between relevant government organizations and universities, as well as to conduct academic deliberations based on this, the Coordinating Committee for Earthquake Prediction is operated. Moreover and for research on crustal movements, the Coastal Movements Data Center is being operated in order to gather, archive, and provide tidal records observed by relevant government organizations.

## (xii) Measures for Stranded Commuters

If a major earthquake were to strike a major metropolitan area, it is expected that urban functions would become paralyzed and that there would be more stranded commuters than there were in the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake. Thus, in order to ensure the safety of people in areas where there is a concentration of people and urban functions, a system based on plans for promoting urban regeneration and ensuring safety was established in 2012. In areas subject to urban regeneration and emergency development measures (sixty-three areas nationwide as of the end of March 2016), efforts are being undertaken to improve urban disaster preparedness through public-private partnerships by way of the production of plans for promoting urban regeneration and ensuring safety, the conclusion of agreements concerning facilities for promoting urban regeneration and ensuring safety, and the easing of various regulatory constraints. Comprehensive support for the production of plans for promoting urban regeneration and ensuring safety and for both structural and non-structural elements based on such plans is being provided through projects for ensuring and promoting urban safety for which areas around key stations are also regarded as areas subject to aid. Special measures concerning the imposition of taxes have also been taken for stockpiling warehouses mentioned in plans for promoting urban regeneration and ensuring safety.

## (xiii) Ensuring Operational-Continuity Functions In the Event of a Disaster

If the supply of energy during a disaster is suspended in areas where urban functions are concentrated, there is a risk that economic activities will become paralyzed and disaster measures will be impeded, thereby causing a huge socioeconomic impact on this country.

In order to address these vulnerabilities in our cities, a project for the urgent promotion of the development of operational-continuity zones in case of disaster was established in FY 2015. We are accordingly promoting the development of area-wide energy networks to ensure operational continuity during disasters.

## (xiv) Safety and Security Measures of the Underground Malls

Underground malls serve as important public spaces within the city, but there are concerns that evacuees will be disordered when a large-scale earthquake occurs along with the fact that facilities are aging, therefore, a guideline was