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Nichiken: A Commitment to Community Safety in Nishinomiya

On January 19, 2026, Nichiken Corporation, headquartered in Minato Ward, Tokyo, entered into an essential agreement with Nishinomiya City, represented by Mayor Toshirō Ishii. This collaboration aims to address disaster readiness by providing rental machinery and equipment, enhancing the efficiency of relief operations during emergencies.

The Agreement's Importance

This recent protocol is designed to facilitate the smooth receipt, sorting, and transportation of essential goods to evacuation centers during disasters. By supplying equipment like forklifts and protective walls, Nichiken aims to directly contribute to quick and reliable distribution of aid to those in need. Beyond immediate support, it enhances the safety of the resource centers and helps prevent potential chaos in times of crisis.

Insights from the Signing Ceremony

During the signing ceremony, the Director of the Nishinomiya Bureau of Industrial Culture, Hasegawa, emphasized the necessity of strengthened preparedness in light of the Nankai Trough earthquake and referred to past experiences during the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. He stated, "The support of machinery like forklifts is a much-needed preparation that draws on 30 years of lessons learned."

He further highlighted the importance of creating a safe environment for evacuees through practical training in the future, indicating a proactive approach to disaster management.

From Nichiken, Shinji Fujiwara, the Head of the Kansai Branch, spoke of the company's long-standing spirit of volunteerism and commitment to community contributions. He explained how their extensive network of about 250 national locations and insights gained from disaster response initiatives would bolster their support during crises. Reflecting on the firm’s efforts during the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, he expressed a strong intent to collaboratively build an effective support system with Nishinomiya City, viewing this agreement as a significant starting point.

The Road Ahead

Nichiken aims to continue solving various challenges through its construction machinery rental business. With the highest priority placed on the availability of "safe" and "reliable" machinery, the company is determined to strengthen its ability to fully support the local community and society during emergencies. This partnership marks a proactive step forward and solidifies Nichiken’s role as a vital resource in disaster preparedness and response.

Ultimately, the agreement not only reinforces the cooperative efforts between Nichiken and Nishinomiya City but also sets a precedent for future collaborations aimed at ensuring community safety and resilience in the face of disasters.