Japan Proposes Automated Conveyor-Belt Highway to Tackle Logistics Challenges
Japan‘s efforts reflect a proactive approach to modernizing logistics infrastructure amid ongoing challenges in the sector.
Tokyo /July 5, 2024 / FreightTech Friday / Grace Sharkey -- Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has unveiled plans for an automated conveyor-belt highway spanning over 310 miles across central Japan.
Known as the Autoflow-Road proposal, this innovative project aims to combat the country's transportation and logistics labor shortages by optimizing road space and enhancing freight movement efficiency.
The proposed system, featuring both aboveground and underground conveyor-belt roads between Tokyo and Osaka, promises to handle freight volumes equivalent to 25,000 truck drivers per day.
Senior ministry official Shuya Muramatsu highlighted the project's potential benefits in a recent briefing, emphasizing its impact on traffic management and associated costs.
Plans for the Japanese Conveyor Belt. (Photo: South China Morning Post)
Despite the ambitious scope, the $508 million plan is currently in its early stages of consideration, with no definitive timeline set for construction. Japan's efforts reflect a proactive approach to modernizing logistics infrastructure amid ongoing challenges in the sector.