The government said Friday it plans to request that companies extend their New Year holidays, possibly to about a week in length, to mitigate congestion on public transportation and during traditional shrine visits as a measure against COVID-19.

Since the year-end to New Year holiday season in Japan is a time for family reunions, train stations and airports typically become overcrowded on certain days with those traveling home.

By lengthening the holiday season, people are likely to be able to make more flexible travel schedules and avoid congestion. The measure was discussed during a meeting of a government subcommittee dealing with the coronavirus. The subcommittee suggested the government request that companies allow employees to take days off flexibly around the New Year holiday season.