Beijing steps up calls for disaster preparedness in southern China after dozens die amid severe rainfall
- Central government authorities tell emergency officials to ‘strengthen’ prevention measures after deadly highway collapse, and flooding
- Heavy rain expected to continue through weekend, as China sees holiday travel spike
With more downpours expected in the region, central government emergency agencies have asked local departments of the water resources, natural resources and transport ministries to “closely monitor the rain and flood developments” and “strictly” implement warning and response measures.
The State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters and the Ministry of Emergency Management met representatives of the relevant ministries on Thursday, according to state broadcaster CCTV.
Similar emergency meetings have been held over the past two weeks.
Ministry officials were told on Thursday to “strengthen the prevention of flash floods and geological disasters, and decisively relocate threatened residents in advance”.
Local authorities were ordered to inspect underground interchanges, tunnels and low-lying areas and “strengthen inspection and protection” of anti-flood structures near rivers. Professional technicians and rescue forces were told to be prepared and ready to handle emergencies in a “timely and efficient” manner.