Keiei Doyukai -Deep Underground Utilization-

Deep underground is a new concept of underground use based on the “Act on Temporary Measures Concerning Public Use of Deep Underground” (henceforth “Deep Underground Law”) that came into force in 2001.

This concept was first conceived when land prices were soaring at the peak of the bubble economy to enable the public use of deep underground spaces, which are generally untapped, and was legislated to promote construction of roads and common ducts, which are indispensable for urban formation. However, there are technical issues involving the use of underground spaces, ventilation, and how to secure safety during disasters, as well as construction cost issues. As at March 2007, no construction has been completed under the Deep Underground Law. Criterion for the depth is “40m or deeper below ground level, and 10m or deeper from the upper bearing ground surface of the foundation pile”. Compensation is not required if the construction is intended for public use.

Source: “Wikipedia”, the free encyclopedia

The objective of Keiei Doyukai is to present proposals for the “Metropolitan Expressway Deep Underground Relocation Project” (henceforth “this Project”). This Project is a nationwide scale project that aims to improve the urban environment significantly by using the PFI (Private Finance Initiative) approach, which does not impose burden on the state finance although it is a form of public work, to relocate the entire 26 kilometers of the deteriorating Inner Circular Route to 60 meters underground.