A landslide in China leaves 47 people missing

Rescue efforts are underway to find 47 people missing after a landslide in a rural village in southwest China's Yunnan Province early Monday morning, 22 January.

According to the disaster relief headquarters, the missing villagers are members of 18 families. The search for those trapped under the rubble is ongoing.

More than 500 residents have been evacuated from the area as the provincial commission activated a level three emergency for the disaster.

According to the local weather forecasts, it will snow in the city on Tuesday, with the minimum temperature dropping to minus three degrees Celsius.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered rescue work to be carried out swiftly to minimise casualties. He also demanded stronger monitoring and early warning, as well as a scientific approach to search and rescue work to avoid recurring disasters.

In his order, Xi called for appropriate measures to support bereaved families and resettle victims.

Xi noted that natural disasters, traffic accidents and industrial accidents may occur as the Spring Festival approaches and the negative impact of the coming cold weather.

He asked relevant regions and agencies to analyse potential risks and carry out their duties to prevent major casualties and ensure the safety of people's lives and property. This is reported by Xinhua News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.

Photo: Xinhua News Agency