A string of fatal accidents in japan makes safety concerns mount around traditional festivals

Saijo official dies beneath float

A senior local official in Saijo died at the weekend after reportedly being crushed beneath a festival float. The official was Nabae, whose death prompted the city’s mayor, Mitsuyoshi Ochi, to express shock and sadness.

Ochi said in a statement that he had expected to work with Nabae on building a new administration for Saijo. He said he could not believe the tragedy and offered his condolences.

Two deaths at Danjiri events

Police said 16 people were injured in the incidents. The account describes these two deaths as occurring in another part of the country before the Saijo official’s death.

Floats topple on tight turns

Police said the floats toppled as hundreds of men pulled them at speed around tight corners. The floats can weigh up to four tonnes. The turns, known as yarimawashi, are a highlight of the festivals, which were originally held to pray for good autumn harvests. Media reports said 11 floats, each weighing as much as three tonnes, were lined up side by side when the Saijo accident occurred.