Japan’s Push for Modernization in Public Services

Japanese authorities aim to incorporate emerging technologies into public services to enhance modernization and efficiency within three years.

Focus Areas

The government is targeting improvements in water supply and sewage systems through next-generation technologies to ensure consumer safety. Key priorities include the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain technology.

Government Directives

This initiative was revealed after a meeting of a digital administrative and fiscal reform panel led by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Minutes from the meeting confirm instructions for agencies to start utilizing modern technologies in water and sewage systems.

This directive follows a road collapse in Saitama Prefecture attributed to a broken sewage pipe.

Expected Actions

Municipal and local governments will likely guide relevant agencies to begin integrating these technologies. Experts suggest using IoT devices for real-time monitoring of water systems and deploying AI for predictive maintenance tasks. Drones will help identify pipes in need of repairs, while blockchain will maintain a transparent ledger for system operations.

Japan’s prior plans included a five-year blueprint for upgrading public services with emerging technologies. The latest directive accelerates this timeline, pushing for a complete integration within three years.

Public-Private Efforts

Recognizing the challenges ahead, Ishiba announced plans to launch a public-private partnership aimed at establishing AI data centers to facilitate this overhaul. Plans may formalize by June.

Other public services are also anticipated to adopt AI and blockchain systems in alignment with Japan’s digital transformation strategy.

Broader Context of AI and Blockchain in Japan

Japan has been actively integrating AI across various sectors, including transportation, retail, and military, while building a supportive legal framework. Additionally, the government leverages non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as incentives for government officials, while communities address aging challenges through digital collectibles.

ADB Investments in Uzbekistan’s Water Systems

In a related move, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has committed a $125 million loan to Uzbekistan for modernizing its water systems using advanced technologies.

The Climate-Smart Water Management Improvement Project aims to enhance the efficiency of water resources amid climate change challenges. This initiative will focus on implementing smart water management systems that utilize AI and IoT.

ADB Country Director Kanokpan Lao-Araya stated, “Uzbekistan’s water resources are under acute threat from climate change and inefficient usage.” The project aims to improve water utilization, reduce energy use, and improve operational efficiency to minimize carbon footprints.

Over the next weeks, regional water utility branches are set to install metering and telemetry systems. Utility personnel will also receive training in emerging technologies.

ADB’s Broader Goals

The ADB plans to enhance digitization efforts across Asia, targeting AI and Web3 projects. Earlier experiments included blockchain-based green bonds and measures against digital asset crimes, collaborating with local law enforcement agencies to refine their capabilities.