Transcript

Hello and welcome to today’s news from Japan Daily News on July 18th, 2023. In today’s news, the Tokyo Metro has resumed service on the Nanboku Line after a temporary suspension due to a train malfunction. The line was back in operation at around 8:30 am. Meanwhile, a dangerous heatwave is persisting in the Kanto and Tokai regions, with temperatures expected to reach 39 degrees Celsius in Saitama Prefecture. Please continue to take precautions against heatstroke.

Turning to weather-related news, there is a risk of heavy rain and potential landslides in the Japan Sea side of Tohoku, including Akita Prefecture. The front is becoming active again, and heavy rainfall is expected to continue until the 19th. Please remain alert for landslides, river flooding, and low-lying areas prone to waterlogging, and stay updated with the latest information.

Shifting gears, the redevelopment of Meiji Jingu Gaien, spanning Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ward and other areas, has raised concerns and opposition due to insufficient prior explanations. A resident briefing session was held on the 17th, and numerous questions were raised regarding the construction of high-rise buildings.

In international news, after a four-year hiatus due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, middle-ranking officials from the Self-Defense Forces and the Chinese military held a face-to-face exchange in Beijing. They exchanged views on various issues concerning the bilateral relationship.

Lastly, today marks the fourth anniversary of the Kyoto Animation studio arson attack, which claimed the lives of 36 employees. The trial of the defendant, Shinji Aoba, who has been charged with murder and arson, is scheduled to begin in September this year. One of the bereaved family members expressed the hope for a trial that emphasizes the value of life.

That’s all for today’s news. Thank you for listening to Japan Daily News. And now for the weather. Today in Tokyo, the weather will be sunny with a high of 29°C and a low of 26°C. And that’s all for today’s news. Thanks for listening to Japan Daily News.