#Japan #Kagoshima #JWAD #Water Support System #WOTA Corporation

Strengthening Community Resilience through Disaster Water Support

WOTA Corporation, headquartered in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, has taken a significant step towards enhancing water security during emergencies by signing an agreement with Kagoshima Prefecture. This agreement focuses on a mutual support system for disaster water supplies called the "Regional Mutual Assistance Agreement for Water Supplies in Emergencies." This initiative aims to fortify the existing framework that ensures the availability of water in times of disaster, particularly in evacuation centers.

Overview of the Agreement

The primary goal of this agreement is to promote a robust mutual aid system among local governments to effectively manage water resources during disasters. Through collaboration with the Japan Water Association for Disaster (JWAD), WOTA aims to facilitate a smooth flow of resources and information between unaffected and affected areas during emergencies.

Key Components of the Agreement:

• - Provision of Water Supply Equipment: The agreement allows municipalities that are not impacted by disasters to provide essential water supply equipment, such as the WOTA BOX and WOSH, to those that are affected.
• - Rapid Information Sharing: It emphasizes the necessity for quick communication among stakeholders about disaster conditions, needs for water supply equipment, and schedules for installation, operation, and removal of these resources.
• - Optimal Allocation of Resources: The strategy includes consolidating and distributing supply resources based on provincial frameworks.
• - Training and Preparedness: It encompasses provisions for training and pre-distribution of resources to ensure readiness for emergencies.
• - Support for Local Coordination: JWAD will act as a mediator to assist in coordination among municipalities.

About the Regional Mutual Assistance Platform

The mutual assistance platform creates a structured system that allows rapid deployment of water supply equipment across the country during disasters. By organizing and monitoring resources at the prefectural level, municipalities can efficiently allocate necessary items to affected areas, aiming to deliver aid within one week of a disaster occurrence.

This approach will be complemented by ongoing training and regular drills, enhancing initial response capabilities. Such preparedness will safeguard water supply and hygiene conditions in shelters and healthcare facilities during crises.

JWAD, the Japan Water Alliance for Disaster, was established to build a nationwide mutual assistance system and will oversee the organization and management of this platform. Comprehensive details about JWAD and this initiative can be found on their official website.

Future Plans

WOTA aims to expand this program nationally by signing similar mutual assistance agreements with other prefectures, thereby establishing a responsive and flexible framework equipped to handle major disasters anywhere, anytime. This approach to disaster readiness highlights the critical need for systematic preparation and collaboration among municipalities to tackle potential water crises effectively.

About WOTA Corporation
Founded in 2014, WOTA Corporation is a private enterprise committed to tackling global water challenges caused by resource depletion, pollution, and uneven distribution. They have developed innovative decentralized water recycling systems and autonomous water treatment technologies to recycle wastewater efficiently. Their products, including the water recycling systems designed for household use, have already made significant contributions to emergency water access and public health enhancement in various regions. For more information, visit their website.