Public-Private Project Launched to Ease Congestion during 2020 Games

August 9, 2018

Tokyo- A public-private project was launched on Wednesday to alleviate traffic congestion in Tokyo during the 2020 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, including the use of a congestion prediction map.

"To make the quadrennial event a success, it's of paramount importance to realize smooth transportation for the event while minimizing the impact on traffic," Shunichi Suzuki, minister in charge of the Tokyo Games, said at the project's launch ceremony.

Business groups expressed concerns about the possible negative implications for logistics, while requesting publicity efforts on the congestion issue. In response, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike said, "We'll help you to work smoothly."

Under the project, a congestion projection map will be compiled and distributed widely to help commuters, drivers and others avoid train and road congestion.

The total number of visitors to Olympic and Paralympic venues in Tokyo and other areas is estimated at 10 million.

One estimate suggests that, with no preventive measures, metropolitan expressways could see congestion double from normal levels during the Olympic and Paralympic period. Jiji Press