Japan Press Weekly

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2011 March 9 - 15 [GREAT EAST JAPAN DISASTER]

Specific information on ‘planned blackouts’ needs to be released

Editorial (excerpts)

Transportation systems in the Tokyo metropolitan region were in total chaos on March 14 due to the rolling blackouts conducted by Tokyo Electric Power Co. in order to deal with the shortage of electric power following the Great East Japan Disaster.

Planned blackouts need to take place in order to prevent a sudden power cut. However, TEPCO brought about many problems with its sloppy procedure. It made a sudden announcement of the “planned blackouts” on the night before the 14th without clearly designating which areas would be affected when. Moreover, the blackout plan was not confirmed until the last minute.

Electric power suspensions have a major impact on various public systems, including transportation, telecommunications, hospitals, and schools. It also affects water supply, land phones, and those who are using mechanical ventilators at home. It is essential for TEPCO to coordinate with the government to release an adequate amount of information before carrying out blackouts in order to minimize the negative effects.

Due to the shutdown of the Fukushima No.1 Nuclear Power Plant, the electric company and the government intend to continue with the “rolling blackouts”. The Tohoku Electric Power Co. also plans to hold rolling blackouts in its region. In order to avoid confusion, what is most needed is to provide timely and detailed information to the public.