Japan accelerates air conditioning rollout for disaster evacuation centers

The Japanese government is moving to accelerate its plan to install air conditioning in elementary and junior high school gymnasiums used as disaster evacuation centers. The current goal to reach a 100% installation rate by fiscal 2035 is being adjusted to move the target forward by approximately five years to better prepare for summer disasters following recent large-scale earthquakes and heavy rains.

In response to these needs, Gobo City has announced it will fast-track the installation of air conditioning in the gymnasiums of 10 local schools. Originally planned to be completed gradually at a rate of two schools per year, the city will now implement the upgrades across this fiscal and the next. The city is submitting a budget proposal of 360.7 million yen to the assembly to begin work on eight schools, aiming for full completion by June next year to ensure readiness for the summer season.