Traditional Chinese Simplified Chinese Email this article news.gov.hk
Second batch of the HK Search and Rescue Team took off (with photos/video)
************************************************************

    The second batch of the 20 member search and rescue team from the Hong Kong SAR Government left this morning (May 16) for Chengdu, Sichuan to join the search and rescue work in areas affected by the disastrous earthquake.

    The team comprises of 17 firemen and three ambulancemen who are also members of the Special Rescue Squad of the Fire Service Department.

    Before departure, the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang spoke to them and urged them to bring Hong Kong people's care and concern to victims in the areas. The Director of Fire Services, Mr Lo Chun-hung also encouraged Service members to do their best while safeguarding members¡¦ safety at the same time.

    They will reinforce the first batch of the 20 officers team who arrived at Chengdu at around 4am yesterday morning. The team was immediately deployed by local rescue authority to Hanwang at Mianzhu which is about 90 km north of Chengdu. 

    Carrying a total of four tonnes of rescue equipment and emergency supplies, the team made an assessment of the area and started operation immediately.  They have been assigned to work at a wreck which was a four storey office building that collapsed. Since then, five bodies have been recovered.  Apart from assisting local authorities with rescue work, the team will also made an assessment of the needs of the area for a report to the SAR Government. 

Ends/Friday, May 16, 2008
Issued at HKT 00:54

NNNN

Photo Photo
Print this page