China's swift response to the Xizang earthquake

Following the devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Dingri county in the Xizang autonomous region on Tuesday, China swiftly launched a comprehensive response to aid the affected areas. The Ministry of Transport immediately activated emergency protocols, clearing damaged roads and coordinating relief efforts. Air China played a crucial role in providing airlift support, ensuring essential personnel and supplies reached the hardest-hit areas promptly.

By Wednesday morning, all seven affected national and provincial highways had been cleared, restoring transportation routes for emergency response. While rural roads sustained varying degrees of damage, critical sections were cleared, allowing emergency vehicles to pass freely. The ministry established a dedicated earthquake disaster relief team, led by senior officials, to coordinate efforts and facilitate reconstruction. Experts in various fields were deployed to provide on-site guidance for road clearance and post-disaster reconstruction.

Air rescue and relief efforts were equally swift. On Tuesday, 11 flights were arranged to support the disaster relief effort, transporting 128 people. On Wednesday, 10 relief flights were planned, carrying 170 people and 25.6 metric tons of supplies. Air China's CA4431 flight, the first after the earthquake, landed safely at Dingri Airport on Tuesday, delivering disaster relief personnel and supplies. A special disaster relief flight, CA049, was dispatched from Lhasa to Dingri on Wednesday, carrying airport support staff for subsequent operations.

Air China promptly activated its emergency response plan and established an aviation task force for earthquake relief. The airline coordinated with local authorities to ensure sufficient flight capacity and arranged essential resources like oxygen bottles and meal services for incoming flights.

The swift and coordinated response from the Chinese government and Air China demonstrates their commitment to supporting the affected communities and ensuring their recovery. The ongoing efforts to clear roads, provide essential supplies, and support rescue operations are crucial in mitigating the impact of this devastating earthquake.