Governor, Mayor Agree To Step Up Measures
The governor of Japan's northern prefecture of Hokkaido and the mayor of its biggest city, Sapporo, are united in stepping up preventive measures as coronavirus infections are increasing there again.
Prefectural officials confirmed 75 new cases on Wednesday. Fifty-one of them are in Sapporo. The tally in the prefecture surpassed 70 for the third day in a row.
The two leaders are weighing ways to strengthen preventive measures. These include requesting establishments that serve alcohol in Sapporo's entertainment district to reduce business hours.
Governor Suzuki said, "We have a strong sense of crisis over the current situation. I think now is the crucial moment. We must implement stronger measures."
Meanwhile, Japan's government approved a measure allowing 10 taxi companies in Tokyo to reject passengers who refuse to wear face masks.
The operators pushed for the move to protect their drivers and customers.
Tokyo officials confirmed 122 new cases on Wednesday. The figure brings the total number in the capital to more than 31,000.
