The tragic collapse of a highway bridge in Meizhou City, Guangdong province, last week has cast a long shadow over China's May Day holiday travel rush. The incident, which claimed 48 lives and injured 30 others, has prompted authorities to implement a multi-pronged approach to ensure the safety of residents and travelers during this peak period.
A special task force, led by Guangdong Governor Wang Weizhong, has been established to investigate the cause of the bridge failure. The task force will also offer assistance to the injured and their families.
Concerns linger about potential secondary disasters due to the recent heavy rainfall that battered the southern province. Saturated soil raises the risk of landslides and flooding, according to the Department of Natural Resources. To mitigate these risks, a province-wide inspection has been launched, focusing on areas with high geological risk factors like mountains, slopes, and cliffs.
Similar inspections are underway across Guangdong's transportation network. Since last Thursday, the Department of Transport has been scrutinizing highways, railways, and waterways to identify and address any potential safety hazards.
The focus on infrastructure safety extends beyond Guangdong. With regions across China experiencing peak travel volumes during the holiday period, authorities are urging travelers to prioritize safety, particularly during rainy days.
"Heavy rainfall can significantly reduce road traction, " cautioned Feng Lei, a senior engineer from the Public Meteorological Service Center. "This increases vehicle braking distance and the risk of losing control, " he added.
Travelers are encouraged to stay updated on weather forecasts and road conditions before embarking on their journeys. Real-time traffic information can be accessed through official government apps and websites.
The bridge collapse in Meizhou has served as a stark reminder of the importance of infrastructure safety. The immediate response from authorities reflects a commitment to preventing similar tragedies and ensuring a safe travel season for all.