From 2004 to now, 11 serious accidents in China has killed about 535 people. The State Administration of Work Safety has taken unprecedented measures to curb the accident and improve prevention measures, but it said to fully carry out these measures need time. Meanwhile, to enable an efficient implementation, the administration will enhance the investigation of accidents.
Coal mine accidents account for more than half the 11 serious accidents reported in China. While, chemical explosion, water pollution, air-crash and tunnel construction are also included. The accidents has caused over 500 death, and a total economic loss of over 400 million yuan, or 52 million US dollars.
Facing these, the government is taking measures. Top work safety watchdog has outlined its goal of spending nearly 470 billion yuan over the next five years, in the country's first 5-year plan on work safety. Besides, they are also enhancing investigations on the accidents, and to punish those who are responsible for the tragedies.
Punishment for those who are responsible for the 11 serious accidents mirrored the governments determination.
Officials say, preliminary figures show, death toll of the accidents lowered about 10% compared to last year, while the coal mine section lowered 21%.
Meanwhile, Li Yizhong also admits that challenges remain. He explains China is on the track of fast industrial development. It brings opportunities, and the conflicts as well. Though the central government has filed 12 major policies on work safety, the implementation of them need time.