Benzene at more than 1,000 times the acceptable level has been detected in groundwater at the planned relocation site for the Tsukiji market, an expert panel of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government said Oct. 6.

The panel, meeting at Tokyo City Hall, urged more detailed examinations, making it likely that its recommendations on pollution measures for the site will be delayed from this fall to next year, members said.

The planned site for the new Tsukiji market, which will offer fish and other fresh foods, is in the Toyosu area of Koto Ward.

The panel plans to decide on details of the second examination at its next meeting Nov. 5.