The Fukushima prefectural government announced on Monday that it will discontinue providing temporary housing for evacuees from the towns near the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant by the end of March 2026. This decision is based on the expectation that living conditions will improve for residents of Okuma and Futaba, who were displaced by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami-triggered meltdowns.
Currently, there are 966 people living in 593 temporary accommodations, including prefabricated homes in Koriyama and rented private properties across 26 prefectures. The prefecture has already ended similar housing programs for evacuees from other municipalities.
Prefectural officials will assist residents in finding permanent residences by conducting surveys and providing support such as real estate introductions. The completion of public housing projects has contributed to the decision to phase out temporary housing.
© KYODO