Jongmyungrae: "Record-breaking heavy rain is a natural disaster, but there is also a human factor"

"Addressing Concerns Regarding the Appropriateness of Dam Operation and Management"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Chun-han] On the 20th, Cho Myung-rae, Minister of Environment, stated that there is a "human factor" aspect related to the recent flood damage caused by heavy rainfall.

At the National Assembly Environment and Labor Committee plenary session that day, when Ahn Ho-young, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, asked whether the recent flood damage was caused by human error or a natural disaster, Cho said, "In terms of the record-breaking heavy rain, it is a natural disaster, but issues regarding the appropriateness of dam operation and management are also being raised."

When Ahn asked, "Are you saying there is a human factor aspect due to management negligence?" Minister Cho replied, "Yes. We will look into it through the Dam Management Investigation Committee."

Before reporting on current issues that day, Minister Cho said, "As the minister in charge of water management, I consider the current situation very serious," and expressed, "I apologize and feel deeply sorry for the people who suffered flood damage due to this record-breaking heavy rain."

Kim Jong-seok, Director of the Korea Meteorological Administration, also said, "I am very sorry that the summer monsoon forecast and the prediction of localized heavy rain in some areas did not meet the public's expectations."

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