Four major earthquakes hit the Tangshan, Szechwan and Kansu areas of the Chinese mainland in July and August, causing heavy casualties. The Chinese Communist regime responded by terming the criticism of Teng Hsiao-ping the main task of "Anti-quake and Relief Work," reducing grain rations for the people throughout the mainland, forbidding anyone to ask for relief. Refusing to report on the quake tolls, the Chinese Communists also rejected offers of humanitarian help from the outside world. The Free China Relief Association in the Republic of China on Taiwan has taken emergency measures since July 28 to accept contributions from fellow Chinese in the free world for the purchase of badly needed grain, clothes and medical supplies. The relief items are being sent by balloons from the offshore islands of Quemoy and Matsu to the earthquake-stricken areas of the mainland. According to intelligence reports, Chinese Communist MIG fighters in Antung, Hopeh, Honan, Kwangtung and Fukien have tried to intercept and shoot down balloons carrying the humanitarian aid from the Republic of China. However, it is reported most of the airlifted materials get through and reach the target areas. One million units of relief items had been sent by the end of August. The work continues.
FCRA accepting contributions from all walks of life
Relief material attached to small balloons
Earthquake map of the Chinese mainland
Big balloons carrying relief items
Packing rice and flour for airlift
Grain, medicines and daily necessities to be airlifted by FCRA