CRI听力:Relief Supplies Rushed to Tibet Following Earthquake

Relief supplies including clothing, food and medicine, are being taken to Tibet following the Nepal earthquake.

So far, 18 people have been confirmed dead and four are missing in the western Chinese region which borders Nepal, while another 55 were injured.

The central government has allocated 5,000 tents, 30,000 coats, 15,000 foldable beds and 15,000 sleeping bags to the affected areas in Tibet.

The regional government has also delivered relief materials, medicines and drinking water.

Infrastructure in the southwestern part of Tibet was destroyed in the quake. Thousands of houses collapsed and communications base stations were damaged.

CRI correspondent Norbu Tsering visited a hard-hit town this afternoon.

"The road between Xigaze and Lhatse was cut off. Lhatse is short of drinking water and food. They are rationing food and water there. Supplies will be running out in three to five days. Personnel with the Armed Police in Tibet are transporting supplies on foot to quake-stricken areas."

He says hygiene is a priority issue in the quake zone as well.

"Based on information we have got, the water quality of seven shelters in Jilong County has approximately reached standards for drinking water, easing the shortage of water for quake-hit areas. Professionals have sterilized garbage and tents, and introduced knowledge about epidemic prevention to people and monitored the water quality there."

The Ministry of Public Security is warning that the highway linking Xigaze, a major Tibet city, and Zham Pass, the border port to Nepal, has been cut by landslides.

The ministry is also urging citizens not to drive, in order to leave the way clear for the transportation of relief supplies and professional rescue teams.

Tourists are also urged not to visit scenic spots during the upcoming May Day holiday.