The citizens of a Japanese city recently rejected a dam project, but officials are ignoring the referendum's result. The controversy reflects a growing sentiment nationwide for a more democratic relationship between the government and the governed. Despite such results, the Ministry of Construction makes it clear that it will adhere to the planned construction, in order to secure the flood control. Flood control, however, should not be the only consideration in managing the river. It nurtures many lives, provides a place for recreation and creates the landscape of a homeland.
Dialogue is needed between the government and the local people.
A framework should be sought in which different opinions can be voiced and incorporated to form a consensus. This may take time and experience. Hopefully, the Yoshinogawa project will become a model case in citizen participation in public works projects. He added that since the referendum currently has no legal binding force, its legalization should be considered in the future.