Japanese experts complete earthquake damage assessment

February 3, 2025 10:15 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Adorina Massing.

Japanese experts who facilitated damage assessments after the 7.3-magnitudeearthquake have revealed their on-site survey reports and confirmed that infrastructures and facilities constructed by Japan are functional for public use.

These infrastructures include the Lapetasi Wharf, main wharf,international terminal of Bauerfield Airport, Vila Central Hospital (VCH), and the Teouma Bridge (temporary detour bridge and the new bridge under construction).

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Representative in Vanuatu, Mitsutaka Uchijima,confirmed that the team of experts departed last week for Japan on Friday, 31 January, since their arrival on 5 January.

Mr. Uchijima said all infrastructure requires proper and regular maintenance, including these structures,especially after the earthquake.

“Therefore, JICA will stay connected with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU)and other relevant authorities to work towardsa resilient society and contribute to the recovery effort of Vanuatu,” he said.

“We and the team thank all personnel who kindly collaboratedon our survey.”