Chinese state councilor stresses flood control efforts

Chinese State Councilor Wang Yong has called for all-out efforts of flood control by screening for hidden dangers and improving areas of weakness.

Rescuers work in Shenzhen on April 12, 2019. [Photo: IC]

Wang, also head of the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters, made the remarks during his inspection in central China's Hunan and Hubei provinces on Thursday and Friday.

Local authorities should revise and improve flood control plans, refine the preparation for emergencies, keep a close eye on important facilities and weak links, and conduct an in-depth investigation of hidden dangers for flood control, Wang said.

They should also strengthen patrols and emergency response, ensure the safety of important dikes and key facilities during the flood season, and reduce the risks of flooding, mountain torrents and waterlogging in cities, he said.

Wang added that it is necessary to closely monitor the changes in weather and flood conditions, issue forecasts and warning information as early as possible, organize relocations in a timely manner, and prevent secondary disasters such as landslides.