Concerns have arisen regarding the safety of the Osaka Expo’s “Great Roof Ring,” following alarming footage showing erosion around its base. The structure, recognized as the world’s largest wooden architecture, has sparked discussions about its stability, particularly as parts of its foundation extend into the sea. Former Mainichi Shimbun journalist Izumi Koda and Professor Ayumu Yasumoto from the University of Tokyo recently addressed these concerns in a discussion that has garnered attention on social media.

While the official explanation from the Expo Association claims the structure is secure, with 60-meter deep piles embedded in the ground, skepticism remains. The foundation’s integrity is critical, especially given the soft soil conditions of Yumeshima, where the Expo is located. Critics argue that if the soil’s erosion continues, it could jeopardize the entire structure.

Koda expressed her apprehension, emphasizing that while the Great Roof Ring is designed to withstand erosion, the sheer height and weight of the structure — standing at 12 meters above ground — raises legitimate concerns. If the foundation were to fail, the consequences could be dire.

The possibility of severe weather, including typhoons and tsunamis, adds another layer of anxiety. Although the Expo Association assures that the structure has been built to withstand anticipated wave heights, experts are questioning the adequacy of these assurances, recalling past instances where predicted tsunami heights were exceeded.

With the Expo set to commence soon, the urgency for clarity and assurance regarding the structure’s safety is paramount. As concerns about potential liabilities and structural integrity loom, the future of the Expo and its impact on Osaka’s economy hangs in the balance. The dialogue surrounding this event highlights the delicate interplay between ambitious construction and environmental realities, prompting a critical examination of urban planning strategies in vulnerable areas.