China to reinforce marine security operations in Xisha and Nansha islands
This year, China will strengthen its marine security capabilities on Xisha and Nansha islands, according to the China Marine Bureau.
The bureau said China has established a world-class advanced maritime traffic safety management and service system featuring a marine automatic identification system and a long-range identification and tracking system to ensure maritime safety and the protection of the marine environment.
Besides, China will send large patrol ships and aircraft to Xisha and Nansha seawater regions to enhance its offshore supervision capacity.
Despite of the double-digit increase in the port’s cargo and vessel throughput, the annual figures of sea accidents occurring on China's coast has seen a slight decline. Statistics show that the bureau launched 1,945 maritime rescue operations last year and enjoyed a life-rescue success rate of 96.7%.