Japan's infrastructure ministry plans to speed up quake-proofing work at key water facilities nationwide following the Noto Peninsula earthquake.

The quake that struck central Japan in January left roughly 140,000 houses and businesses without access to tap water or sewerage. The repair work lasted nearly five months.

Experts found that water facilities with quake-resistance features were relatively unscathed. Based on that finding, the ministry has decided to carry out intensive quake-proofing work at other key sites.

The program will target water purification plants, main water supply lines, sewage treatment plants and other major water facilities.
Officials will also make water pipes more quake-resistant near facilities designated as emergency shelters.

The ministry plans to seek the necessary funding in the draft budget for the next fiscal year.