Premier Wen in Hunan helping direct disaster relief work

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After discussing the current situation in Hunan, the Premier decided immediately to establish disaster-relief headquarters in Changshang. His aim is to safeguard the supply of electricity, and the efficient transport of resources such as coal and petroleum.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (C) talks to the stranded passengers in a coach on the Beijing-Zhuhai expressway near Xiangtan City of central China''s Hunan Province, on Jan. 29, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

Wen Jiabao said, "Our task in Hunan province is to restore the electricity supply and rail operations between Changsha and Shaoguan. If we finish that successfully, it will build up the confidence of the whole nation in combating the disaster."

Shortly after his arrival in Changsha, Wen Jiabao held meetings with Hunan officials on how to fight the ice and snow, and how best to direct disaster relief work.

Wen Jiabao pointed out that the relevant authorities should spare no efforts to restore the electricity network, and resume operations on the railways linking China's north and south.

He said the priority for the railway authorities is to ensure that the transportation of passengers and essential supplies goes off without a hitch during the Spring Festival period.