ushernet Chapter 197: At All Costs_1
Chapter 197: At All Costs_1
Chapter 197: At All Costs_1
Translator: 549690339
“Secretary Zhang, I propose that we immediately report to the municipal party committee and the municipal government. At the same time, we should also mobilize here promptly. Leaders of the county committee lead teams to instruct towns under the county to assess the disaster situation, calm down the public, and restore daily life and production.” Nie Zhenbang promptly put forward his own suggestions. Nie had experienced an earthquake personally. But that time, he was but a child, only witnessing numerous members of the People’s Liberation Army tirelessly rescuing people from the ruins — a touching scene indeed. However, it was his first time facing such a scene as a leader. With no experience to rely upon, Nie Zhenbang could only draw upon his vague memories to formulate a general plan.
Xibei has always been a disaster-prone area. Every year, there are at least hundreds of earthquakes, although most of them are not severe. An earthquake of magnitude six is considered quite big. However, the cadres in Xibei have considerable experience in handling earthquakes and reconstruction work post-disaster.
Zhang Chubin also nodded at this moment. Nie Zhenbang was indeed capable. Despite being a young county head facing such a situation for the first time, he showed no panic. Instead, he was able to think clearly and suggest constructive ideas in an orderly manner, which earned him Zhang Chubin’s deep admiration.
Subsequently, Zhang Chubin nodded and said, “Director Nie’s suggestion is very insightful. It’s excellent. Everyone, take action quickly. The person in charge of the Seismological Bureau, report to the superior department immediately. Request support from the seismic information center of the autonomous region’s Seismological Bureau, and quickly gather accurate earthquake data. How big is the magnitude? How strong is the intensity? What is the depth of the focus? And what are the follow-up situations? All these must be understood clearly, and promptly reported to the county committee so that the county government can plan for the next steps.”
The Seismic Information Center is the predecessor of the national seismic network. At this time, the national seismic network has not been established, and the department responsible for national earthquake monitoring, forecasting, and re
In the hummer, Chen Le sat next to Nie Zhenbang. Pointing at the towering mountain range in the distance, Chen Le’s expression grew sombre, “Director, in less than eight kilometres, we will reach Gemu Township. Beyond that is the mountain road.”
The mountain road to Gemu Township had been paved by military engineers who had blasted through the mountain. The rugged terrain sat at the edge of a precipice. During normal times, landslides, mountain collapses, and rock falls were already common occurrences, let alone after a severe earthquake.
“Director, perhaps we should let the leading car to scout ahead first? Once we know the road conditions, then we can follow suit.” Chen Le hastily proposed his idea.
To Chen Le, Nie Zhenbang’s safety was of utmost importance. There was an ancient saying, ‘the wise avoid danger’ — if something were to truly occur, the losses would far outweigh the gains.
Nie Zhenbang contemplated for a moment then said in a deep voice, “Let’s all go together. Regardless of the situation, we need to get there as soon as possible. There’s no time for hesitation.”
The three vehicles advanced in a single file. After covering an additional two kilometres, they found that the road ahead had been completely obstructed. Nie Zhenbang stepped out of the car, his gaze rested upon the road before him, his brows furrowed. Much of the mountain had collapsed, completely obstructing the highway. Huge boulders mixed with mud strewn across the road, were scattered everywhere.
With the main roads this way, it was easy to imagine the situation in Gemu Township. At this point, the ground began to ripple once more. Although the tremors weren’t strong, they were enough to instigate another landslide, disgorging additional rocks and soil that were precariously hanging onto the mountainside.
Chen Le shouted loudly at this moment, “Director, be careful!”
Nie Zhenbang swung away Chen Le’s hand that was gripping his arm. Looking ahead at the cascading avalanche, his composed demeanour left the officers by his side in awe. Director Nie’s courage was truly impressive, standing unfazed before danger, truly he was willing to pay any price. (.)