Japan Marks 30th Anniversary of Hanshin Earthquake

Japan marked the 30th anniversary of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, which struck the Kobe region on January 17, 1995, killing over 6,400 people and injuring thousands more. The anniversary was commemorated with a series of memorial events, including a candlelight vigil and a moment of silence at 5:46 a.m., the exact time the quake hit. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako participated in the ceremonies, emphasizing the importance of passing on the lessons learned to younger generations. The earthquake spurred significant changes in Japan's disaster preparedness, including the establishment of crisis management centers and earthquake insurance. However, as time passes, there is a growing concern about fading memories and the challenge of ensuring that the lessons from the disaster continue to be taught. Efforts are ongoing to enhance Japan's disaster response capabilities, with plans for a new disaster management agency expected by 2026.