Chinese premier stresses safety in key sectors, services for Spring Festival travel rush

Chinese Premier Li Qiang has issued comprehensive directives emphasizing safety protocols and enhanced service quality during China’s annual Spring Festival travel rush. During an inspection tour of the Ministry of Emergency Management on Saturday, the Premier addressed critical operational aspects affecting millions of citizens during this peak travel season.

Premier Li, who also serves on the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, conducted detailed assessments through the ministry’s video monitoring systems, evaluating real-time transportation operations and emergency preparedness measures. He emphasized that the massive seasonal migration presents a significant test of the nation’s transportation infrastructure capabilities and requires coordinated management across multiple sectors.

The Premier specifically highlighted the necessity for rigorous safety protocols in high-risk industries including mining operations, hazardous chemical handling, fire prevention systems, and major construction projects. He mandated strengthened supervision mechanisms and enhanced risk prevention measures for fireworks and chemical materials, with particular attention to industrial safety management and strict regulation of hazardous operations to prevent catastrophic accidents.

Regarding transportation services, Li urged optimization of convenience measures and enhanced support services including charging facilities, refueling stations, and transfer arrangements. He additionally called for improved contingency planning for adverse weather conditions that could disrupt travel plans during the holiday period.

With tourism expected to reach unprecedented levels during the festival, the Premier emphasized the importance of elevating service quality across the entire hospitality chain, including transportation, dining, accommodation, and retail services. He stressed that effective duty arrangements and sufficient staffing were essential during this period of mass family reunions, requiring all localities and departments to maintain strict adherence to operational protocols and enhanced emergency response capabilities.