Tokyo, Japan

Japan is planning to build a 300-mile conveyor belt (autoflow-road network) between Tokyo and Osaka for better efficiency in transportation. 

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They aim to deal with two problems with this high-tech road. First, an automated belt will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions to a great extent. Secondly, it will also help Japan deal with the shortage of delivery drivers they are currently facing. This automated road will ensure smooth cargo transportation across Japan. 

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The pressing problem of shortage of delivery drivers

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Japan is currently facing a shortage of delivery drivers due to the rapid ageing of the population. This is a significant problem for Japan as it slows down the transportation system of the nation. 

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According to Nomura Research Institute, it is estimated that conventional freight transportation will drop to 1.4 billion tonnes in 2030 compared to 1.43 billion tonnes in 2020. 

In a grim situation like this, an automated road is what Japan needs. This conveyor belt would function 24 hours a day, with pallets holding up to one tonne of cargo. It is said that this automated belt would replace the job of 25,000 drivers per day. 

An initiative towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions 

According to the plan devised for the Autoflow-Road, the conveyor belts will be installed beneath highways, on ground tracks, along motorways, etc. This is an attempt to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase efficiency in transportation. 

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"The Autoflow-Road will not only address the logistics crisis but also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We would like to speedily proceed with discussions on the matter," Transport Minister, Tetsuo Saito said during the unveiling ceremony. 

(With inputs from agencies)