On the 19th, Osaka City announced a generous donation of 21 kilograms of gold from a private donor, valued at approximately 566 million yen at the time of the announcement. The donor, wishing to remain anonymous, declined public recognition and a ceremony but expressed the desire for the gold to be used for renewing aging water pipes. This unusual gesture comes in response to a recent incident in Kyoto where a broken water pipe caused significant flooding on a major road, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.

The substantial donation not only highlights the rising value of gold, which the water bureau plans to sell to fund necessary repairs, but also reflects public engagement in community welfare. Mayor Hidetaka Yokoyama expressed his astonishment at the donation, stating that such a significant amount will greatly alleviate the financial burden of ensuring the city's water infrastructure remains safe and functional. The city plans to use the funds effectively in light of increased public awareness of infrastructure risks.

This donation poses interesting implications for how municipalities might engage with individual donors and the potential for further private contributions in the face of public infrastructure challenges. The mayor’s comments about the 'unbelievable amount' signify a shift in how local governments may view citizens' roles in funding civic projects, possibly setting a precedent for future engagements.