SW China province to relocate 69 schools under geological threat

GUIYANG, Jan. 30 (Chinese media) -- Southwestern Guizhou

Province has allocated 423 million yuan (61.8 million U.S. dollars) to relocate

69 rural schools with some 53,300 students and teachers, which are under the

threat of possible geological disasters.

According to the provincial land and resources

authorities, these primary and middle schools in 30 counties are facing

immediate threat of geological disasters or other potential safety risks due to

a series of natural disasters last year.

According to schedule, relocation of the 69 schools

will be completed before the end of April.

The provincial land and resources authorities carried

out a safety checkup last year in areas affected by the severe winter weather

early last year, the 8.0-magnitude earthquake that jolted Sichuan Province and

neighboring regions in May, and seasonal and unexpected floods.

The authorities also found that 75 other rural

primary and middle schools with 26,700 students and teachers were facing minor

safety risks. These schools will also be relocated to safe places

gradually.