Central Development Corporation Showcases Disaster Prevention Innovations at Tsuruga City Comprehensive Disaster Drill
On November 9, 2025, Central Development Corporation (CDC), headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo and led by President Makoto Tanaka, participated in the '2025 Tsuruga City Comprehensive Disaster Drill' held at the Yudagawa Community Center. This event was part of a collaborative agreement established in March 2024 between Yamagata Prefecture's Tsuruga City and Yamagata University and aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness strategies. CDC took part in this significant initiative, joining efforts through the 'Yamagata University Disaster Environmental Science Research Unit' to set up an exhibition booth focusing on slope disaster monitoring.
At the exhibit, representatives from CDC’s Geo-Maintenance Division, Tohoku Branch presented community-engagement initiatives regarding slope disaster monitoring, as well as terrain surveys conducted using drones. Visitors had the opportunity to understand the practical applications of drones, which are expected to play a crucial role in disaster surveys and transportation of medical supplies. Engaging activities such as drone piloting simulations and actual flying experiences were organized by Yamagata University, drawing significant interest. The hands-on pilot experience section highlighted the use of thermal sensors mounted on drones, captivating both children and adults who participated actively.
The community-engaged slope disaster monitoring is designed to enable local residents to take proactive measures in evacuation scenarios. Tools like the slope collapse detection sensor 'Kantarou' and alert messaging systems are utilized in the monitoring process, supported by educational activities. Tsuruga City initiated a trial of slope disaster monitoring in the Takasaka district starting August 2025. More details about the Kantarou sensor can be found through the provided links.
Using UAV technology, various types of information can be collected from aerial surveys. Drones not only capture still images and videos but also conduct laser-based terrain surveys. These surveys allow for targeted monitoring involving slope disaster sites, road inclines, and embankments, among others, accumulating data aligned with specific project objectives. For further information about UAV technologies, additional links are available.
Tomoo Hashimoto, Deputy Manager of the Tohoku Branch, remarked, "Although it rained early in the morning, the weather cleared up before the event began, allowing many attendees, including international students from Yamagata University and families with small children, to visit. Their enthusiasm and thoughtful questions provided us with valuable insights and made it a worthwhile learning opportunity."
The event showcased not only the essential roles of technology and community participation in disaster preparedness but also served as a reminder of the ever-present risks associated with natural disasters.
Established in 1946, Central Development Corporation became Japan's first geotechnical consulting firm as part of post-war reconstruction efforts. Over the decades, CDC has pioneered the practical application of standard penetration tests and has been involved in significant domestic and international infrastructure projects. The company has expanded its business scope to include civil engineering design, information analysis, and disaster prevention consulting using IoT devices. Recently, CDC has been advancing its initiatives in digital transformation under the banner of 'Geological DX,' engaging in research and development in AI applications by leveraging point cloud data and data from borehole surveys. For more details, please visit the Central Development Corporation’s official website.
The Soil and Water Holdings Group is committed to practical involvement in work that preserves the earth, leaves lasting impressions on people, and contributes to a prosperous future. The group's focus on 'Soil and Water' acknowledges that there is still much to learn about these essential elements, which vary significantly based on geological activity and environmental conditions.
The group values real-world experiences and endeavors to develop new technologies while providing accurate surveys to help make informed decisions.
Central Development Corporation Public Relations Department
Phone: 03-6228-0861
Email: [email protected]
At the exhibit, representatives from CDC’s Geo-Maintenance Division, Tohoku Branch presented community-engagement initiatives regarding slope disaster monitoring, as well as terrain surveys conducted using drones. Visitors had the opportunity to understand the practical applications of drones, which are expected to play a crucial role in disaster surveys and transportation of medical supplies. Engaging activities such as drone piloting simulations and actual flying experiences were organized by Yamagata University, drawing significant interest. The hands-on pilot experience section highlighted the use of thermal sensors mounted on drones, captivating both children and adults who participated actively.
Community-Engaged Slope Disaster Monitoring
The community-engaged slope disaster monitoring is designed to enable local residents to take proactive measures in evacuation scenarios. Tools like the slope collapse detection sensor 'Kantarou' and alert messaging systems are utilized in the monitoring process, supported by educational activities. Tsuruga City initiated a trial of slope disaster monitoring in the Takasaka district starting August 2025. More details about the Kantarou sensor can be found through the provided links.
Terrain Surveys Using Drones
Using UAV technology, various types of information can be collected from aerial surveys. Drones not only capture still images and videos but also conduct laser-based terrain surveys. These surveys allow for targeted monitoring involving slope disaster sites, road inclines, and embankments, among others, accumulating data aligned with specific project objectives. For further information about UAV technologies, additional links are available.
Feedback from Participants
Tomoo Hashimoto, Deputy Manager of the Tohoku Branch, remarked, "Although it rained early in the morning, the weather cleared up before the event began, allowing many attendees, including international students from Yamagata University and families with small children, to visit. Their enthusiasm and thoughtful questions provided us with valuable insights and made it a worthwhile learning opportunity."
Event Highlights
The event showcased not only the essential roles of technology and community participation in disaster preparedness but also served as a reminder of the ever-present risks associated with natural disasters.
About Central Development Corporation
Established in 1946, Central Development Corporation became Japan's first geotechnical consulting firm as part of post-war reconstruction efforts. Over the decades, CDC has pioneered the practical application of standard penetration tests and has been involved in significant domestic and international infrastructure projects. The company has expanded its business scope to include civil engineering design, information analysis, and disaster prevention consulting using IoT devices. Recently, CDC has been advancing its initiatives in digital transformation under the banner of 'Geological DX,' engaging in research and development in AI applications by leveraging point cloud data and data from borehole surveys. For more details, please visit the Central Development Corporation’s official website.
About the Soil and Water Holdings Group
The Soil and Water Holdings Group is committed to practical involvement in work that preserves the earth, leaves lasting impressions on people, and contributes to a prosperous future. The group's focus on 'Soil and Water' acknowledges that there is still much to learn about these essential elements, which vary significantly based on geological activity and environmental conditions.
The group values real-world experiences and endeavors to develop new technologies while providing accurate surveys to help make informed decisions.
member companies of the Soil and Water Holdings Group
- - Central Development Corporation
- - Hokusuiseisaku Consultancy
- - Shinwa Boring Co., Ltd.
- - Regional Environmental Research Institute
- - Japan Measurement Survey Co., Ltd.
- - Chengdu Dongzhong disaster prevention and mitigation technology company
Inquiries about this article
Central Development Corporation Public Relations Department
Phone: 03-6228-0861
Email: [email protected]
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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