More than a week has passed since a magnitude-6.8 earthquake shook Dingri County in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region on January 7. Despite the passage of time, resettlement and reconstruction efforts continue, with the community pulling together to rebuild what was lost.
In the small village of Cuo'ang, nestled in Quluo Town, the spirit of solidarity is palpable. The firefighters of the Xizang Forest Firefighting Special Operations Unit have taken on roles beyond their call of duty. Amidst rubble and the remnants of homes, they are preparing warm meals for the villagers, providing not just sustenance but comfort and hope.
Our reporter, Zhao Chenchen, visited the frontline to witness this heartwarming scene. \"We want to do more than just rescue operations,\" said one firefighter. \"Cooking meals is a way to show the villagers that we are here with them, every step of the way.\"
The firefighters set up makeshift kitchens amidst the ruins. The aroma of freshly cooked rice and vegetables fills the air, momentarily masking the scent of dust and debris. Villagers gather, young and old, their faces etched with fatigue but softened by smiles as they receive their meals.
\"It's been tough since the earthquake,\" shared Tashi, a local resident. \"But seeing the firefighters here, cooking for us, it feels like we're not alone.\"
The efforts of the firefighters go beyond nourishment. By sharing meals, they foster a sense of community and resilience. As the rebuilding continues, gestures like these weave a fabric of unity, crucial for recovery.
Reconstruction in Dingri County is a long road ahead, but with the dedication of the firefighters and the indomitable spirit of the villagers, hope remains strong. The shared meals symbolize more than aid; they represent a promise of better days to come.
Reference(s):
Watch: Firefighters make lunch for quake-affected villagers in Xizang
cgtn.com
