00:01:57
ITN
China quake death toll rises
China quake death toll rises
The death toll from Monday's 7.9-magnitude earthquake in China has risen to above 19,500, according to officials.Transport planes have been dropping more aid for the survivors in China's southwestern Sichuan province. But hopes are fading for the 25,000 people still buried under rubble.About 130,000 army and paramilitary troops are assisting the search and rescue effort.More than 12.5 tonnes of relief goods had been air-dropped and scores of helicopters are flying in rescuers and aid.The Foreign Ministry said quilts, tents, food, satellite phones, medicines and excavators were needed most.But in some villages near the badly hit area of Beichuan, angry residents complained they had had little to eat and were forced to drink contaminated water.Many are sleeping outside or in makeshift shelters where the lack of water and blocked toilets has raised fears of outbreaks of diarrhoea and other infectious disease.And new threats emerged from damaged dams.Meanwhile, a group of 19 British holidaymakers missing after being caught up in the Chinese earthquake have been found safe and well.The British ambassador to China, Sir William Ehrman, said: "Of the group of 19 British tourists that were missing in the Wolong area, 14 have now been evacuated to Chengdu where they are safe and well."The British ambassador has visited them and they are being looked after by UK consular officials."We understand the remaining five tourists are also safe and we expect them to be evacuated to Chengdu later.""The UK is grateful for the help and assistance of the Chengdu authorities on this matter."The Travel Collection group were travelling with the Kuoni tour company.
ITN | May 15, 2008
