Vice-Premier Wang Yang said on Aug 6 that local authorities should do their utmost to minimize damage caused by drought.

Wang, general director of the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters, said at a meeting that provinces affected by drought should ensure that every household has access to safe drinking water, initiate plans for irrigation to guarantee the production of food - and also make sure that residents follow measures to save water.

Some parts of the country are experiencing serious drought as they have seen little rain amid continuous high temperatures.

Wang said the central government will allocate funds to support areas seriously affected to ensure agricultural production.

He said local authorities should implement the central government’s long-term plans to tackle drought and promote water-saving irrigation and dry farming technology.

Wang also demanded local governments to promote water price reforms to ease impacts from drought.

He noted local authorities should take precautions and monitor the situation in flood-prone areas.