Guiyang releases geological disaster prevention and control plan

Guiyang has recently released its 2025 Geological Disaster Prevention and Control Plan, aiming to enhance disaster preparedness and mitigate risks across the city.

As of May 30, Guiyang had identified 575 geological hazard-prone sites, with landslides and collapses being the most common threats. These sites endanger 10,121 households and 41,932 people. Additionally, 789 risk-prone slopes – which show no current signs of activity but are at high risk – could affect 10,500 households and 41,200 residents.

Guiyang lies in a region highly susceptible to geological disasters, with approximately 60 percent of its territory classified as medium or high-risk areas. Intensified by frequent extreme rainfall, construction activity, rural housing developments, mining operations, and nearby seismic events, the frequency and severity of geological hazards in the city have escalated in recent years.

The plan emphasizes a comprehensive, proactive approach, combining engineering solutions with relocation efforts. The city will implement strategies across six key areas: investigation, prevention, remediation, relocation, emergency response, and public awareness.

Focused inspections will target densely populated and high-risk zones. By November 2025, an updated survey will be conducted to reassess existing hazards and dangerous slopes, especially in extreme weather.

All hazard sites will be managed through a registry system. Measures such as site-specific response plans, multi-level responsibility systems, and full-coverage evacuation drills will be enforced. Monitoring efforts will combine human surveillance with automated systems for early warning and rapid response.

Engineering projects will be carried out to eliminate hazards and restore damaged housing, ensuring community safety.

Relocation remains the core strategy for high-risk, unmanageable areas. All sites deemed unsuitable for engineering control will be included in the 2025 relocation program. The most critical areas must complete relocation by the end of the year, following a "relocate after risk mitigation" approach.

In the event of a disaster, prompt and scientifically informed rescue efforts will be launched. The city will strictly enforce early warning and evacuation protocols, including the "2-1-1" emergency response mechanism and the "3+1" evacuation procedure.

Educational campaigns, particularly around National Disaster Prevention and Reduction Day, will raise community awareness and improve residents' abilities to identify risks, respond effectively, and assist each other.