The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said Vice Minister Kim Ei-tak held a video conference on the afternoon of the 20th with major affiliated agencies participating to discuss emergency measures related to the Middle East situation, and reviewed the impact on the land and transport sector due to global instability and discussed response directions.
On this day, the Vice Minister asked for preemptive measures across the entire land and transport sector that assume even the worst-case scenario, given the possibility of external variable fluctuations stemming from the recent situation in the Middle East.
First, he ordered a thorough review of the impact on costs, schedules, and financing for major national projects such as dwellings, roads, and railways, and to immediately share with the government any concerns about potential setbacks. He also noted that, as rising energy prices may affect public transportation demand, relevant agencies should check operational stability and service quality so people can travel more safely and conveniently, and preemptively implement necessary measures.
In addition, as disruptions in Middle East routes and rises in exchange rates and oil prices could burden both the airline industry and passengers, agencies were instructed to closely monitor air supply and demand, industry conditions, and passenger inconveniences, and to actively review necessary support measures.
Regarding overseas construction, they were also asked to prioritize the safety of Korea's corporations and workers and to manage the situation stably by closely cooperating with ordering entities and local authorities to minimize the impact on overseas orders.
The Vice Minister also directed strengthening energy-saving efforts starting in the public sector to reduce energy demand in preparation for a prolonged situation, and to devise effective energy-saving measures tailored to the characteristics of each affiliated agency.
The Vice Minister said, "We will specifically review all impacts on the land and transport sector and preemptively prepare by assuming what problems could arise in the future," adding, "We will also consult with relevant ministries to actively pursue necessary support measures to minimize public inconvenience and market shock."