00:02:30
ITN
Quake death toll 'could hit 50,000'
Quake death toll 'could hit 50,000'
The death toll from the earthquake that rocked China on Monday could reach more than 50,000.The latest figures have been reported by the official Xinhua news agency, which quoted rescue headquarters.Some 20,000 have already been confirmed dead as a result of the 7.9-magnitude quake, and tens of thousands more remain buried in rubble in areas of the worst-hit province of Sichuan.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
