Tokyo likely to shift part of torch relay off public roads

The Tokyo Olympics organising committee is likely to move the first eight days of the Tokyo leg of the Olympic torch relay off public roads due to concerns about the spread of the coronavirus.

Kyodo news agency reported on Tuesday that the traditional torch relay was due to reach Tokyo on July 9 after passing through suburbs and islands before parading through the centre of the city from Jul 17.

However, as most part of Tokyo is under a state of emergency until July 11 and rising concerns about Covid infections, Kyodo said officials were likely to change plans for the first half of the Tokyo leg.

The report however, did not specify the likely alternative for the first eight days.

Meanwhile, a Tokyo Metropolitan Government official said a panel was looking into the matter.

Notably, Japan has recorded more than 792,600 cases of the virus and more than 14,600 deaths and is currently witnessing the fourth wave of infections.

News Desk

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