New measures put in place to avert dam collapses

China has gone three consecutive years without a dam collapse, an unprecedented achievement despite growing flood control challenges linked to climate change, a senior official said on Tuesday.

Speaking at a news conference, Wang Baoen, vice-minister of water resources, described reservoirs as key infrastructure of significant importance.

"Reservoirs are essential infrastructure with multiple functions, including flood control, water supply, power generation and ecological conservation," Wang said. "They play an irreplaceable role in safeguarding lives and property, promoting socioeconomic development and maintaining overall social stability."