WUHAN, June 11 (Xinhuanet) -- Chinese Vice Premier Hui Liangyu said Saturday that local governments must safeguard large and medium-sized reservoirs on major rivers, and minimize losses caused by floods and droughts.

    Hui, a member of the Political Bureau of the Chinese Communist Party Central Committee, made the remarks at a national flood control and drought relief work meeting held in the capital of central China's Hubei Province.

    From June 8 to 11, Hui, who is also chief of the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters, visited major flood control projects on the Yangtze River, Chinese longest river. The sites include the Three Gorges Project, Jingjiang Dyke, Jingjiang River Flood Diversion Area, Honghu Lake Flood Diversion Area and Longwangmiao Embankment, where he inspected safety of reservoirs and diversion areas, and visited with the officials and people.

    This year's flood control has entered a crucial stage, said Hui.The climate is changeable and the rain belts are unevenly located,said Hui.

    Flood control and drought relief at major rivers matters to the whole national flood control, drought relief situation and China's economic and social development, said Hui. Therefore, governments and flood control departments at all drainage areas must fully realize the severe situation and make full preparation, he noted.

    Localities must improve forecast of disastrous weathers and closely monitor changes brought by weather and floods. Extra efforts must be made on safety of reservoirs, prevention of mountain torrents and typhoons, Hui said.

    In addition, Hui urged local authorities at small and medium-sized rivers, small and medium-sized cities and towns and rural areas to strengthen flood control work. Enditem