Premier Chang San-cheng has vowed to launch an all-out effort to help rebuild areas affected by the powerful quake that hit southern Taiwan on February 6th. Chang’s vow came on Monday, the first day back at work following the Lunar New Year holiday.
The 6.4-magnitude quake that hit southern Taiwan left 116 dead and more than 500 injured.
In a letter to Cabinet members and staff, Chang promised to start the post-quake reconstruction work immediately. He said the government will help Tainan city government rebuild the affected areas and provide it with resources in the most efficient and flexible way possible.
The premier also expressed his gratitude to the rescue workers who worked around the clock through the 9-day holiday.
Taiwan’s government buildings flew their flags at half-mast on Monday in memory of the victims. Official New Year gatherings have also been cancelled.
Meanwhile, President Ma Ying-jeou called a meeting to discuss post-quake efforts. During the meeting, Ma said he is pleased with the government’s rescue efforts. He also asked the Cabinet to come up with a plan to reinforce Taiwan’s buildings.