State Councilor Wang Yong, head of the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters, called for strong coordination and solid actions in the all-out flood prevention, relief and rescue efforts to protect people's safety and property, at a meeting on July 22.

At this critical time, departments concerned should beef up prevention and preparation for severe floods, Wang said, adding that best preparations should always be made to reduce casualties and minimize loss.

Flood relief and rescue must be carried out at full capacity in severely hit areas such as Henan province, with more support and assistance to resettle the flood victims and recover normal production and life order as soon as possible, Wang said.

He also called for a close watch over rain and flood situations and strict precautions for rainstorms, typhoons and disastrous weather.

More work should be done to safeguard rivers, reservoirs, dams, and dikes, prevent waterlogging in cities, torrential floods and mudslides, and reinforce safety control in production, road traffic and tourist attractions, Wang said.