Japan Post (JP) has discovered over 150,000 instances of improper safety checks concerning motorized bicycles used primarily for deliveries. While checks for trucks and vans are mandated under the Motor Truck Transportation Business Act, motorized bicycles are not covered. JP has reported the findings to the National Police Agency and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, planning to release the details later on April 22.
The issue surfaced after a special audit by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism revealed widespread misconduct. This resulted in the revocation of JP’s cargo transportation business licenses for vehicles like trucks, affecting about 2,500 vehicles. A further audit is ongoing for JP’s light vans, totaling about 32,000, with expected vehicle usage suspensions across the nation starting in October.
Separately, JP conducted an internal review of their motorized bicycles, approximately 83,000 in number, focusing on alcohol checks using security camera footage. The investigation revealed that of the approximately 610,000 checks that should have occurred, over 150,000 were not carried out or were improperly conducted. This affected nearly 60% of the postal branches scrutinized.
JP acknowledged motorized bicycle checks are not mandated by the Motor Truck Transportation Business Act but warned that failure in alcohol checks might infringe the Road Traffic Act, prompting them to report the findings to the police.
by MagazineKey4532