Gokseong-gun, Full Efforts for Disaster Relief Amid COVID-19 Situation

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Chunsu] Gokseong-gun, Jeonnam, is making every effort to protect the health of disaster victims and provide essential supplies after COVID-19 cases were confirmed in the area.

According to Gokseong-gun on the 21st, the county responded by setting up shelters (temporary housing facilities) for the 995 disaster victims who lost their homes instantly due to the recent heavy rains.

As recovery progresses, many disaster victims have returned to their homes, and as of the 20th, 98 disaster victims are using four shelters in Gokseong-gun.

However, the occurrence of COVID-19 cases caused disruptions in shelter operations. According to COVID-19 prevention guidelines, places corresponding to the "3Cs" (closed spaces, crowded places, close-contact settings) should be avoided.

After much consideration, the county proposed various measures to the disaster victims and asked for their opinions. The victims held their own meeting and decided to return to their homes.

Disaster victim A said, "Although it is a bit inconvenient, health and life come first. We thought returning home was the safest for everyone because it could endanger not only our own health but also others."

Gokseong-gun provided essential supplies such as floor mats, blankets and quilts, mosquito nets, ramen, bottled water, electric rice cookers, burners, rice, side dishes, and even tents if necessary, to minimize the inconvenience for disaster victims returning home.

They are also regularly checking for any shortages and taking care of the victims' health and daily lives. Fortunately, electricity and water have been restored since the 10th, making basic living possible.

Gokseong-gun plans to promptly test those who had contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases and, depending on the test results, will resume shelter operations as quickly as possible upon the victims' request.

A county official said, "It is a difficult situation with both flood damage and COVID-19. We are grateful that residents are enduring the inconvenience for their health and safety," and added, "We will mobilize all available resources to ensure that disaster victims can live healthily and safely, including providing essential supplies."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.