Following yesterday's large earthquake, Premier Jiang Yi-huah today asked ministries to stay on the alert and take preparatory measures against possible aftershocks and landslides in the coming days.
The Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of National Defense, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC), the Council of Agriculture and the Ministry of Education (MOE) were also instructed to keep abreast of damage from the quake and to activate an emergency response task force as needed.
Jiang indicated that the government has made many strides in improving and strengthening building structures since the 921 Earthquake of 1999. As a result, yesterday's temblor did not see a massive collapse of buildings. But as more tremors are expected, he directed the MOTC to checks roads and bridges thoroughly. The Ministry of Economic Affairs will also inspect reservoir facilities more closely while the MOE examines the earthquake-resistance ability of school buildings.
As for people killed or injured in the earthquake, the premier directed local authorities to actively offer assistance or condolence. Damaged homes should also be carefully assessed for safety.
Jiang said President Ma Ying-jeou is keeping a close eye on developments. During last night's visit to the Central Emergency Operation Center, Ma said many counties and cities still have much room for improvement in disaster preparedness especially as many aged school buildings, for instance, are still prone to collapsing. But given the governments' budget constraints, it will not be possible to make the necessary improvements within a year. The president hoped central and local authorities would set aside more funding for such purposes in the future.
Jiang said that though the quake took place during school hours, it was fortunate there were no major casualties, indicating that earthquake education and drills are clearly making a difference. The premier asked the MOE to continue strengthening school buildings and promoting disaster preparedness education.