Vessel traffic signal stations ensure safe and efficient navigation within ports, along and nearby designated maritime traffic routes, and in waters with heavy maritime traffic. To accomplish this, they gather information on the movements of maritime traffic and other conditions, and provide information on the positions and movements of ships and other advisories, through radio or ordinary telephones or using light signal boards.
In FY 1995, JMSA improved or repaired 14 existing vessel traffic signal stations. In addition, it undertook 10 disaster preparedness and response countermeasures and rebuilt one vessel traffic signal station that was damaged by the Great Hanshin-Awaji Island Earthquake.
During FY 1996, it is improving or repairing 11 vessel traffic signal stations.
(2) Tidal Stream Signal Stations
Tidal stream signal stations provide ships with information regarding the current and forecasted directions and speeds of tidal currents in straits where tidal currents are strong. They provide these advisories through radio or ordinary telephones or use markers, light beacons, or light signal boards.
In FY 1995, JMSA improved or repaired one tidal stream signal station. During FY 1996, it is improving or repairing eight tidal stream signal stations.
II. Maintenance and Operation of Aids to Navigation
Excepting aids to navigation to be stationed by JMSA personnel at all times, such as LORAN C and DECCA stations, virtually all aids to navigation are automated and operated unattended.
III. Local Weather Information Service
Weather and oceanographic conditions often change suddenly in coastal sea areas because of factors such as their complex topography. Therefore, obtaining the most up-to-date information on weather and oceanographic conditions is indispensable to people engaged in operating ships, fishing industry, and marine leisure activities. The demand for this information has been growing every year.
It is for this reason that the 43 lighthouses and aids located on key capes throughout Japan conduct observations of local weather and oceanographic conditions, such as wind velocity (direction and speed), waves, and swells. JMSA provides information on these
