Following Tuesday night's magnitude 6.0 earthquake that hit Hualien County in eastern Taiwan, Premier Lai Ching-te visited the Central Emergency Operation Center early this morning to oversee responses by government agencies. He directed the agencies to devote all resources to disaster relief in order to contain and minimize damage caused by the strong temblor.
Aside from conducting emergency rescue operations, response units must also assess the number of people trapped in collapsed buildings in the cold weather, the premier said. Responders must use all means necessary to save lives and keep count of trapped victims. Officials should also check quake-hit areas for damage to water and gas pipes and power lines to prevent the occurrence of secondary disasters.
The risk of further aftershocks cannot be ruled out, Premier Lai said, ordering transportation and construction agencies to inspect all roadways, bridges and other public infrastructure for signs of hazards. Should the Hualien County Government require assistance, the central government will provide immediate and full support for emergency rescue operations.