Tibetan Member of CPPCC Proposes More Financial Support to Yushu

( 2012-March-8 12:19:30)

By staff reporter ZHANG HUA

In a panel discussion at the Fifth Session of the 11th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) on March 7, Sangye Gya, a Tibetan and former president of the Qinghai Provincial Committee of the CPPCC, said: "After Yushu was hit by the massive earthquake in April 2010, the central government did all it could to aid the rescue efforts and kick off reconstruction there as quickly as possible. Those affected by the earthquake have also received donations and support from people across the country. Tibetans in Yushu highly appreciate the generous help we have received."

Sangye Gya reported on the progress of reconstruction in Yushu. According to him, by the end of 2011, RMB 19.886 billion had been invested in fixed assets in Yushu, representing 69.8 percent of total planned investment. 37,764 units of housing were planned to be built in the aftermath of the earthquake, and at present 85.4 percent have been completed.

However, due to the particular geographic location and natural conditions of the area, the after-earthquake reconstruction in Yushu, sitting at an elevation of 4,000 metres above sea level, has proven to be an arduous task. Due to the physical challenge of the operation, some problems are persisting. According to Sangye Gya, many locals are struggling to get back to normal life after seeing their homes and livelihoods destroyed. Financial backing for some reconstruction projects is still needed, he says. It is hoped the central government will step up its support measures.

In Yushu, many people haven't a regular income. In addition, since reconstruction is still underway, the local job market is still lackluster, and industries and business are delaying setting up shop in the area until reconstruction is complete. What's more, in recent years, rising commodity prices have been squeezing locals' hip pockets.

Sangye Gya proposed that the central authorities should increase financial support to Yushu and take further measures to quicken reconstruction in order to move on from the natural disaster.