China steps up investment in flood control

BEIJING (CHINA DAILY/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - The Chinese central government has budgeted 7.78 billion yuan (S$1.5 billion) to assist local regions in beefing up flood control efforts, the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters said on Wednesday.

The money budgeted thus far is part of a three-year programme launched by the government in November 2010 to build a nationwide flood information and warning system, a statement from the government agency said.

The network is intended to provide timely warnings and advisory information concerning emergency response, evacuation and shelter in the event of a major flood, the statement added.

So far, the money allocated has reached 2,058 counties, according to the statement.