It's smiles all round at the launch ceremony of the Minhang branch of the Shanghai Maritime Rescue Center. [Photo/Shanghai Maritime Rescue Center Minhang branch]

The Shanghai Maritime Rescue Center, or SMRC launched its Minhang branch on July 17 at the Minhang district municipal government conference center in East China's Shanghai.

The new branch is viewed as being a significant step forwards in strengthening the city's water rescue capabilities and emergency response systems.

The Minhang district – with its complex network of waterways and strategic location near the upper reaches of the Huangpu River – is said to play a crucial role in Shanghai's inland water transportation system.

What's more, its bustling shipping industry and dense maritime traffic is deemed to necessitate a robust emergency response infrastructure for water-related incidents.

The newly established Minhang branch has become the first dedicated rescue coordination agency in the Huangpu River area. Its responsibility zone encompasses the Minhang section of the river and all navigable waters under the district's jurisdiction.

Since its formation, the branch has implemented a comprehensive set of emergency plans, including protocols for water rescues and specialized responses to water vessel pollution accidents, according to the SMRC.

Operating a round-the-clock duty system, the Minhang branch aims to facilitate the efficient deployment and integration of water-based emergency resources. This allows for swift and coordinated search and rescue operations within its designated area – significantly enhancing the district's overall emergency response capabilities.

Source: xinmin.cn