Beijing, July 20, 2024, The Europe Today: In the wake of a catastrophic highway bridge collapse in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, President Xi Jinping has called for exhaustive rescue and relief operations to safeguard lives and property. The incident occurred in Zhashui County, Shangluo City, at approximately 8:40 p.m. on Friday due to flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall.
Xi Jinping, who also serves as General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, issued the directive following the tragic event, which has resulted in the deaths of eleven people and left over thirty others missing as of 10 a.m. on Saturday.
“The immediate priority is to carry out rescue operations, make every effort to search for the missing, and minimize casualties,” Xi stated. He also emphasized the need to provide support to the families of those affected.
President Xi highlighted the importance of meticulously planned rescue efforts and the prevention of secondary disasters. With the critical period of flood control approaching, he urged regions and relevant departments to remain highly vigilant, fulfill their responsibilities diligently, enhance monitoring and early warning systems, strengthen inspections, and implement all necessary measures to ensure the safety of lives and property.
Premier Li Qiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, also issued instructions, urging all efforts be made to search for and rescue the missing, investigate the cause of the collapse promptly, and take preventive measures against secondary disasters.
Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, another member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, has been dispatched to the site, leading a working team to oversee and guide the rescue operations.
The collapse has shocked the nation, drawing immediate attention and response from the highest levels of government, underscoring the critical need for robust disaster preparedness and response mechanisms.
