Chinese vice premier calls for strengthening reservoirs

BEIJING, Jan. 15 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Hui Liangyu on Tuesday called for strengthening the construction of reservoirs as insurance against flood and drought and to remove their risks in order to "ensure the safety of people's lives and property".

"Relevant departments should enhance coordination and investment to guarantee the quality, security and efficacy of reservoir projects. All projects to mend risky reservoirs should be completed within three years," he told a national teleconference held by the State Council, China's cabinet.

Hui, also head of the Office of State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters, noted there are still many risky reservoirs around the country. Their protruding hidden dangers threaten the public.

He asked departments concerned to strengthen supervision over fund usage and safety measures during reservoir construction.

"Flood prevention must not see any relaxation," Hui said, adding more efforts should be made to prevent floods, droughts, water pollution and soil erosion.

He added that a modern water management network should be set up as soon as possible to boost comprehensive disaster prevention and agricultural production capabilities, and to enhance the public's drinking water safety.