Xi urges all-out rescue efforts in SW China landslide

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday ordered all-out rescue efforts for those buried by a landslide in southwest China's Sichuan Province. 

Rescuers work at the accident site after a landslide occurred in Xinmo Village of Maoxian County, Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, June 24, 2017.[Photo: Xinhua]

The landslide from a high part of a mountain in Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of Aba hit Xinmo Village at about 6 a.m., burying more than 100 people. A 2-km section of a river was blocked.

Authorities must make maximum efforts to reduce casualties and prevent secondary disasters, Xi said.

Photo taken on June 24, 2017 shows the accident site after a landslide occurred in Xinmo Village of Maoxian County, Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province. [Photo: Xinhua]

Family members of the missing people and those suffering losses in the disaster must be given appropriate care, according to his instruction.

Xi has ordered the State Council, China's Cabinet, to send a work team to the site.

As China enters flood season, governments across the country should strengthen disaster prevention to ensure safety of people's lives and property, according to the order.

Photo taken on June 24, 2017 shows the accident site after a landslide occurred in Xinmo Village of Maoxian County, Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province. [Photo: Xinhua]

Premier Li Keqiang also ordered rescue efforts and examination of geological risks. 

People in danger should be relocated as soon as possible to prevent secondary disasters, Li said.

He also ordered an investigation into the reason for the landslide and proper handling of the aftermath.

As instructed by Xi and Li, State Councilor Wang Yong has led a work team to the site. Authorities of Sichuan Province and Aba Prefecture have launched the highest level of disaster relief response and rescue work is underway.