The Japanese parliament adopted legislation on Wednesday to strengthen inspections of aging sewer pipes. The move follows a fatal sinkhole accident in Saitama Prefecture last year.
The revised Sewerage Act introduces new safety standards based on the extent of corrosion and damage. Local governments must disclose results of safety checks and countermeasures.
Inspections in high-risk areas will now occur every three years instead of every five. The laws will take effect within six months of promulgation.
A government survey found 748 kilometers of sewer pipes needed repairs as of the end of February. The changes also allow greater cooperation between central and local governments on funding and repairs.