Premier Wen Jiabao is telling local authorities in east China's Anhui Province to be aware of the "grave flood-control situation". He also wants people to prepare for more serious flooding of the Huaihe River.

 

Wen Jiabao made the remarks on Saturday during an inspection tour in east China's Anhui Province after concluding an inspection of flood control operations along the Yangtze River.

Wen Jiabao said flood-control headquarters must advise and coordinate local governments in flood prevention and containment. He is ordering provincial governments along the river to work in concert and carry out instructions from headquarters.

The Premier visited working staff of the Wangjia Dam, and thanked the PLA, Armed police force and soldiers who are fighting the floods. He also visited villagers and said flood prevention work should be persistent.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said, "Protecting the dam should be persistent and there must be no carelessness. Prevention is better than a cure."

Wen Jiabao also hosted a meeting in Funan County, where he told local authorities to make comprehensive arrangements in using flood-control projects, that includes reservoirs, gate dams, spillways and flood retention basins.

The Premier is also urging greater efforts to build irrigation and conservancy projects, calling it essential to enhance the ability of flood control and prevention along the Huaihe River.