China's National Development and Reform Commission on Saturday announced the allocation of 30 million yuan (about $4.4 million) from the central budget to support emergency recovery efforts following a landslide in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality.

The landslide occurred on Friday in Pengshui Miao and Tujia Autonomous County, burying several residential buildings downslope, with people trapped underneath. The National Commission for Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief activated a Level-IV disaster relief emergency response following the incident.

As of July 17, eight people had been confirmed dead and 10 hospitalized for treatment. Another 34 people have been reported missing.

The funds will be used for the emergency restoration of infrastructure and public service facilities in the disaster-hit area, according to the National Development and Reform Commission.

Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing led officials from relevant departments to Chongqing on Friday evening to direct on-site search and rescue operations and emergency response work on behalf of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council.

Upon arrival, Zhang immediately went to the disaster site, where he was briefed on the progress of rescue operations and the difficulties facing rescuers. On Saturday morning, Zhang returned to the site to review and refine the rescue plan. He also visited injured people at the county people's hospital and spent time with evacuated residents at a temporary shelter.

Zhang called for all-out efforts to carry out search and rescue operations in a scientific manner, stressing the need to make every effort to treat the injured and ensure that the basic living needs of evacuated residents are met.

(With input from Xinhua)