State Councilor Wang Yong on July 24 visited people affected by severe flooding in North China’s Hebei province and called for maximum efforts in disaster relief and relocation.

Wang’s mission was given by President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang, and he was accompanied by officials from related departments under the State Council.

“We should put people’s lives and safety first. We should make every effort to ensure that flood-affected people are relocated and protected, and receive good service,” Wang said.

Authorities should scientifically arrange settlement areas, said Wang, adding that relief funds and goods including food, clothing, clean water and basic medical treatment should be distributed without delay, to guarantee the basic necessities for flood-stricken people. He also emphasized health security for vulnerable groups such as the injured, the elderly and children.

“Much work is left to do for recovery after a disaster like this,” the state councilor said. Proper guidance in public opinion and quick response to social concerns are needed, and psychological aid for family members of the deceased and missing are also required to help people return to their normal lives.

Wang, who is also head of the National Commission for Disaster Reduction, visited relocation sites and flood-affected villages in Handan, Xingtai and Shijiazhuang.