Hianjei Factory Explosion of 2080

The Hianjei Factory Explosion was a significant historical event that occurred on 9 February 2080.

Located 150 miles north of Neon City, on the island of Hokkaido, Japan, the Hianjei Factory was a powerhouse in its day and known for its rampant productivity and employed thousands. It was not a cyber factory but an industrial one (one of the last), utilizing resources such as oil, gas, radiation, and coal imported from other countries, to create parts, lubricants, and synthetic fuels for AI. Hianjei produced for multiple large corporations. However, its practices became increasingly unethical as corporate demanded productivity during Operation: Evolve. Certain quotas were not met, and disorganization led to malfunction. Eventually its need for nuclear power was increased, leading to necessary caution, which it did not get.

On 9 February 2080, after a week-long period of extreme stress and overproduction, a massive explosion occurred, completely destroying one of the four legs of the factory. Workers rushed into a panic, but within minutes two more explosions occurred, taking out two more legs. The event spread significant radioactive waste within a 50 mile radius, rendering Hokkaido uninhabitable. Thousands of workers and civilians were killed or inflicted with sickness in following weeks.

After significant investigation, it was determined inadequate use of nuclear power mixed with oil and gas reserves led to an overload of pressure, leading to release of force. Some believe it was a government conspiracy with multiple levels. Public perception was altered dramatically through propaganda and restrained exposure. Though industrial production continued in less-developed countries, it was the last of its kind on a mainstream level. The entire island of Hokkaido remains blocked off to the public, and is used as a site for government study.