TOKYO - Japan's top government spokesman says authorities are considering restricting access to the evacuation zone around its crippled nuclear plant.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano said Wednesday that Tokyo was discussing with local authorities the option of legally limiting entry into the area, which has a 12-mile (20-kilometer) radius. It was unclear when the ban might be imposed.
The area around the plant would be legally designated as a "caution area." The aim is to limit radiation exposure of evacuees who want to return to their homes.