China quake locals offer free rides, meals to relief workers

World Today

Ludian County is picking up the pieces as it recovers from the earthquake. As the army and government mobilize relief supplies, local residents are extending goodwill and helping each other in any way they can. CCTV’s reporter Wu Guoxiu reports.

Xie Yuyun is in a rush for a good cause. As the owner of the only car-rental company in Zhaotong city, he is offering free rides to whoever needs them in the aftermath of the earthquake.

Xie Yuyun says he could not remember how many trips he’s made ferrying others to the quake epicenter in Ludian County. He was on the road for a 20 hour stretch one day.

Using his broad social network, he has also helped non-governmental organizations, coordinating deliveries for relief goods.

In addition to free transport, Xie and his friends are also dishing out free meals. They have erected a meal station along the route that leads to villages hit by the quake.

The station functions as a multi-purpose center. It provides a rest stop for lunch, welcoming mountaintop villagers stranded by surging waters who could not return to their homes after they came down for relief supplies.
It provides shelter for volunteers passing-by seeking rest. It also provides food supplies to villages hard to access after the earthquake.

Quake locals offer free rides, meals to relief workers

Ludian County is picking up the pieces as it recovers from the earthquake. As the army and government mobilize relief supplies, local residents are extending goodwill and helping each other in any way they can. CCTV’s reporter Wu Guoxiu reports.