Li calls for all-out flood relief efforts

Premier stresses protection of people's lives, property during visit to Hunan

Premier Li Qiang called on Thursday for all-out efforts in flood control and disaster relief, in order to protect people's lives and property as China faces the most critical stage of this year's flood season.

Li made the remarks when visiting people affected by flooding and inspected flood prevention efforts in Chenzhou, Hunan province. The province in Central China has recently experienced several rounds of torrential rainfall, which has led to severe flooding and geological disasters in some areas.

As of noon on Thursday, 30 people had died and 35 were still missing in Zixing, a city under the jurisdiction of Chenzhou, since extreme weather conditions related to Typhoon Gaemi hit the area starting on July 26.