Emergency docks leading to evacuation shelters are being built so that the rivers can be used for purposes such as transporting materials in the event of an earthquake or other disaster. At normal times these docks are used as standard stops of waterbuses. The Ecchujima and Akashicho disaster prevention pier are also made generally available to tour boats and other river vessels, and have become stopping points on new river boat tour routes.
The Bureau of Construction also utilizes three emergency transport boats as waterbuses during ordinary times. These operate as the "Tokyo Mizube Line" of the Tokyo Metropolitan Park Association so that more people can enjoy the city's waterfronts.