To resolve the water shortage in cities is an imperative task that
affects economic and social development, daily life, as well as the
country's modernization drive and long-term development, said
Vice-Premier Wen Jiabao.
The vice-premier made the remark at a national conference on water
supply, water conservation and water pollution, which was convened
by the State Council in the nation's capital from September
25-26.
Wen urged local governments at different levels to recognize the
importance of the issue and to ensure that cities achieve
sustainable development through the sustainable utilization of
water resources.
China is short of water resources, with its per-capita water
resources accounting for one fourth of the world's average,
according to Wen. Water shortage has hampered the development of
many Chinese cities, he said.
He
urged people to give top priority to saving water by readjusting
the industrial structure, by promoting water-conservation
technology, by strengthening water usage controls and pushing
forward the reform of water pricing.
He
also called for resolute measures to control water pollution, while
making greater efforts to increase channels of water supply for
cities in a rational and scientific manner.
The media should play an important role in creating greater
awareness among the public about water shortages, he said.
(Xinhua 09/26/2000)