Why are rescue operations in Japan's sinkhole disaster delayed?

The delay in rescue operations at the sinkhole in Yashio City, Japan, is primarily due to the unstable ground surrounding the sinkhole. When the sinkhole first appeared on January 28, 2025, it was already a significant hazard, with the truck carrying a 74-year-old driver falling into the hole. The area surrounding the sinkhole continued to degrade as the ground underneath collapsed, causing roadways to crack and fall in. This made it extremely difficult for rescue teams to reach the trapped driver. Despite efforts to lift the truck with cranes and remove sediment to access the cabin, the unstable nature of the ground prevented any significant progress. Additionally, authorities used a drone to survey the site, but the situation remained challenging. The rescue operations are being further complicated by concerns about the flooding and sewage leak caused by the damaged sewer pipe. For a detailed look into the full story, visit the full report

Japan Sinkhole: Driver Trapped for Days as Rescue Operations Persist