Prime Minister Han Seung-soo visited Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, on July 11 to assess recovery efforts following significant damage from heavy rainfall and ordered a nationwide survey of flood-prone areas along with measures to prevent future incidents.
According to the Prime Minister's Office, Han visited flood-affected areas in the Seo-won District of Cheongju, including Mochung-dong and Osong-eup, on the morning of July 11. He received reports from local officials on the circumstances surrounding the flooding that submerged dozens of homes due to the intense rainfall that fell from July 8 to 9. He also inspected key drainage facilities, including the Mochung No. 1 drainage gate and the Miho River embankment.
After reviewing the status of flood prevention measures, Han emphasized the need for thorough disaster preparedness, stating, "There may be extreme weather conditions beyond previous levels."
He instructed the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment to collaborate on a comprehensive survey of flood-prone areas, including data analysis, to develop tailored measures for each region. He urged them to prioritize inspections in frequently flooded areas, including those that have experienced past damage.
Han also stressed the importance of ensuring that drainage facility inspections and disaster prevention projects proceed without delays. While checking the management status of the Miho River embankment and drainage facilities, he stated, "We must accurately analyze the causes of repeated flooding in the same areas and establish fundamental improvement measures."
He directed that a preventive response system be strengthened, focusing on the maintenance of drainage pumps, river management, and the expansion of stormwater drainage systems. He also requested that Cheongju expedite the ongoing sewer maintenance project.
Additionally, he urged that recovery support and damage compensation be expedited to help residents return to their daily lives as soon as possible, emphasizing that relevant agencies must closely cooperate to ensure that support for housing, livelihoods, and agricultural land damage is not delayed on the ground.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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