Vice-Premier Hui Liangyu recently visited south China's flood-devastated Hunan Province to convey anti-disaster instructions by Hu Jintao, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and Premier Wen Jiabao.

During his journey, between July 20-23, the vice-premier, who is a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, expressed sympathy to the local people affected by the flooding and sent greetings to local people, servicemen and police officerswho have been engaged in rescue efforts.

The official observed some flooded areas to learn about the situation and comfort affected villagers and urbanites. Meanwhile,he advised local officials on ways to combat floods and rebuild damaged homes.

He urged local governments to remain on high alert and prepare for more severe floods. Efforts must be made to ensure affected people have adequate food, drinking water, clothing, shelter and medical assistance, he stressed.