Xi Jinping urges all-out rescue, relief efforts after bridge collapses in northwest China

Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged all-out rescue and relief efforts to safeguard people's lives and property after the collapse of a highway bridge in northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, gave the instructions after the bridge, located in Zhashui County in Shangluo City, collapsed at approximately 8:40 p.m. on Friday due to flash floods caused by heavy rain. Twelve people were killed while 31 others remained missing as of 12 p.m. on Saturday.

The immediate priority is to carry out rescue operations, make every effort to search for the missing and minimize casualties, Xi said, also urging efforts to assist the families of those affected. 

Xi emphasized the importance of well-planned rescue efforts and the prevention of secondary disasters.

He stressed that as the critical period of flood control approaches, it is imperative for regions and relevant departments to be extra vigilant, fulfill their duties diligently, improve monitoring systems and early warning mechanisms, strengthen inspections, and implement various measures meticulously to guarantee the safety of people's lives and property.

Premier Li Qiang, who is also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, gave instructions to spare no effort in searching for and rescuing the missing people, investigate the cause promptly, and take measures to prevent secondary disasters.

Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, led a working team to the site to guide rescue efforts.