Ongoing Rescue Operations After Landslide Strikes Village in China

Synopsis

Rescue teams in Sichuan Province, southwest China, are making every effort to locate survivors following a devastating landslide that resulted in casualties and significant damage. The challenging conditions are complicating rescue operations as authorities mobilize various resources to assist in recovery efforts.

Key Takeaways

Rescue operations are ongoing in Sichuan Province.
One confirmed death and 28 individuals missing.
Complex terrain and weather are hindering rescue efforts.
Significant resources mobilized for recovery.
Government financial support allocated for disaster relief.

Chengdu, Feb 10 (NationPress) Rescuers are tirelessly working to find survivors after a landslide struck a village in Sichuan Province, located in southwest China.

The landslide took place around 11:50 am on Saturday in the mountainous community of Jinping in Junlian County, part of the city of Yibin. As of Sunday, local officials reported one fatality, 28 individuals unaccounted for, and two people injured.

Reports from the scene indicate that firefighters, equipped with life detectors, are progressing through the debris despite adverse conditions. They often crouch down, using their hands to probe cracks and crevices, meticulously searching for any signs of life.

Radar systems have been set up on the mountainside for real-time monitoring of terrain stability, according to the tunnel emergency rescue team from Yunnan Province.

Additionally, geological specialists are employing drones and cutting-edge surveying tools to provide technical and safety assistance. At the landslide site, excavators and search teams remain determined, racing against time in the continuous search and rescue operation.

Rescue efforts are being complicated by slick conditions from wet and cold weather, alongside the region's challenging terrain, as noted by a member of the fire and rescue brigade in Yibin.

Drones captured footage on Sunday morning, revealing a vast collapse zone extending from the mountain peak to its base. The landslide measures approximately 100 metres in width, with a vertical drop exceeding 400 metres and extending 1.2 kilometres, according to Xinhua news agency.

To date, 360 individuals from 95 households have been evacuated to temporary shelters. The two injured individuals are currently receiving medical attention.

Sichuan has deployed 949 personnel from military, armed police, firefighting, emergency response, transportation, medical, telecommunication, and other services to aid in the rescue efforts.

The Chinese government has allocated 80 million yuan (approximately $11.16 million) to assist with disaster relief and recovery in Sichuan.

Additionally, 50 million yuan, allocated by the National Development and Reform Commission from the central budget, will be utilized to restore infrastructure and public facilities in the impacted regions, according to officials.