A massive sinkhole has swallowed a 3-ton truck near Tokyo, trapping an elderly driver inside. The rescue efforts have been hindered by unstable ground and a large hollow space beneath the road. Authorities have tried lifting the truck with cranes and digging out the cabin, but progress has been slow.
The sinkhole, which grew to twice its initial size, appears to have been caused by corrosion in the sewage pipe. The driver, 74-year-old man, was conscious before being trapped, but his condition remains unknown. Residents near the site have taken shelter at a local school and are being asked to conserve water use.
The rescue is ongoing, with officials trying to remove sediment and inspect the sinkhole for damage. When the driver is safely extracted, experts will enter the sinkhole to inspect the sewage system, sparking renewed debate about Japan’s aging infrastructure.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/japan-sinkhole-truck-accident-yashio-tokyo-water-db91ee657832b76a1f7addabb8459f0e