Non-returning factors from an interview survey of 16 residents of Katsurao village 12 years after the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident

People generally wish to return home after being evacuated due to disaster situations. Evacuation orders have now been lifted in the Fukushima region following the nuclear accident in 2011, and the Japanese government is promoting a return policy. However, many residents who wish to return home remain unable to and continue living in evacuation sites or other areas. Sixteen residents of Katsurao village were interviewed after evacuation orders were lifted in 2016 who have not yet returned. Concerns were cited regarding radiation, prolonged evacuation, health problems, buying a house in the evacuation area and schooling. The problems identified were primarily due to the rapid ageing and decline of the regional population, reflecting similar issues throughout Japan. In particular, health problems and intention to return were thought to be closely related. Over 10 y have passed since the evacuation, and many residents have experienced familial separation and divided living situations.