Premier Wen calls for courage, patience

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Wen Jiabao said, "In dealing with the disasters, the first thing is to repair the damaged power system as soon as possible to ensure supplies. The second is to do everything to increase coal stocks; and the third is to resume production and adjust the structure of power consumption."

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao waves to truck drivers who were  stranded by the severe snowstorm and frost on an expressway  near Chenzhou of central China's Hunan Province, Feb. 2, 2008.  (Xinhua Photo)

Wen Jiabao emphasized that modern society requires a greater ability to mobilize resources from all sides to deal with emergencies in a scientific manner. A extraordinary spirit is needed for extraordinary tasks in an extraordinary period.

On Sunday afternoon, Wen Jiabao visited Chenzhou, the hardest-hit city in Hunan. He visited truck drivers stranded on the Chenzhou section of Beijing-Zhuhai expressway, and explained to them the current situation. He asked if the drivers had enough food and water and encouraged them to keep up their morale. Wen Jiabao said the road is expected to be cleared within two days.

Wen Jiabao also wanted to know if low-income families had received their subsidies. Chenzhou has been without electricity for days. Local authorities said they had dispatched enough food and necessities to the residents. Wen Jiabao told them that the government is doing everything it can for the relief work. He said the government is determined to restore power as soon as possible.

Editor:Zhang Ning