BEIJING — State Councilor Wang Yong on July 13 urged efforts to cope with recent heavy rains as the country faces a crucial period in combating floods.

Wang, who heads the country's flood control and drought relief headquarters, said at a meeting that unrelenting efforts should be made to safeguard the safety of people's lives and property.

He called for close monitoring and prevention of disasters induced by floods and strengthening the use of flood-prevention projects.

Inputs in flood prevention and disaster relief should be increased and emergency plans should be further improved, Wang said, adding that people affected should be relocated in a timely manner.