Premier Li Keqiang requested that all departments involved in the aftermath of the passenger ship accident should hold press briefings in a timely manner and also release any important news — including the latest developments related to the rescue operation — every hour.

The Premier gave the order during a meeting with officials, after listening to their reports about the search and rescue operation.

He requested that all parties involved in the operation should coordinate their emergency response, and implement emergency measures.

The Dongfangzhixing (Eastern Star), carrying 458 people, capsized and sank at around 9:28 pm on June 1 in the Hubei section of Yangtze River, according to the Hubei provincial government emergency office.