Disaster Recovery Support in Hachijo Island Following Typhoons 22 and 23

In October 2023, Tokyo's Hachijo Island faced devastating impacts from Typhoons 22 and 23. Japan Raw Materials Inc., a water treatment manufacturer based in Kawasaki, stepped in to provide swift disaster recovery assistance. Utilizing their portable water purification system, the Mobile Chiffon Tank (MST), the company has been tirelessly working to restore clean drinking water to affected communities.

Impact of the Typhoons

The typhoons, which made landfall on October 9 and 13, resulted in severe damage to the island's water intake facilities and pipelines. Due to widespread power outages, several water supply systems were halted, leaving approximately twelve households without safe drinking water. This prompted immediate intervention from Japan Raw Materials.

Initial Response and Investigations

Starting October 10, the company began assessing the situation on Hachijo Island. Shortly thereafter, on October 22, after being requested by the Tokyo Water Bureau, they initiated their support by deploying MST units to the Kashitate water reservoir. By October 23, they decided to install two MST-700 units and one MST-1000 unit in the reservoir.

Furthermore, on October 24, Japan Raw Materials received another request to set up MST units at the Sekino-to purification plant. By the 27th, they confirmed the deployment of two MST-700 units to this facility, along with the installation of an MST-2200S unit at the Ogawa water source.

Establishment of Disaster Control Headquarters

In response to the unfolding crisis, a dedicated 'Hachijo Island Disaster Control Headquarters' was established within the company on October 28. The team diligently coordinated the procurement of necessary supplies and began preparations for maritime transport of equipment. The first shipment of three MST units was successfully loaded on November 1, departing from Shibaura Pier on the 3rd and arriving on Hachijo Island on the 4th.

By November 7, the installation of two MST-700 units at the Kashitate reservoir was complete, and the next shipment of equipment departed on the 8th, arriving safely on the 9th. The MST-1000 installation at the same reservoir concluded on the 10th, marking a significant milestone in the recovery process.

A Commitment to Preparedness

Japan Raw Materials Inc. maintains a stock of portable water purification units capable of producing 15,000 tons of drinking water daily, ensuring they are prepared for emergencies. Their proactive measures and commitment to disaster response are integral to restoring the water supply to Hachijo Island as swiftly as possible.

The company continues to dedicate resources to this important cause, working tirelessly to provide clean water and support the community in its recovery efforts. Further updates on the situation will be released as they become available, showcasing the constructive progress being made toward the complete restoration of water services on the island.