Xi directs rescue operation following fatal road collapse in south China
(VOVWORLD) - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday directed the rescue and disaster relief work following the fatal expressway collapse in the southern province of Guangdong.
 Rescuers on duty at the scene of the expressway collapse in Meizhou City, Guangdong province. (Photo: Xinhua/VNA) |
Xi stressed that every effort should be carried out for on-site rescue, treatment of the injured, and proper handling of the aftermath.
He urged for efforts to repair the damaged roads and restore traffic order as soon as possible, adding that all regions and relevant departments must consolidate work responsibilities, strengthen monitoring and early warning, improve emergency plans, promptly investigate and deal with potential risks in key areas and key sectors, and ensure the safety of people's lives and property and the overall social stability.
On Wednesday, a landslide occurred in the Chayang section of the Meizhou-Dabu Expressway in Meizhou City, Guangdong province. The collapse trapped over 20 vehicles, killing 36 people and injuring 30 others.
The incident is considered a "natural geological disaster" caused by the impact of prolonged heavy rain.