Japanese authorities called for countrywide emergency tunnel investigations following the deaths of nine motorists in the Sasago tunnel collapse last month. A fire broke out in the 4.3km tunnel, located some 80km west of Tokyo, killing trapped motorists. The tunnel was closed while police continued to investigate possible negligence as Tunnels went to press. The operating concession holder told local media that the tunnel underwent and passed a major inspection two months prior to the catastrophe. According to reports, the company that owns the tunnel performed only visual inspections, and no repairs or reinforcement had been undertaken since construction in 1977.
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