China earmarks $16m for quake-hit regions

BEIJING - China's top economic planner said Monday it will earmark 100 million yuan ($15.78 million) to support disaster relief efforts and reconstruction after earthquakes in southwestern Yunnan province left 81 people dead.

The National Development and Reform Commission said the money will be used to repair water pipelines and roads and other crucial projects in quake-hit regions, as well as the reconstruction of public facilities, including schools and hospitals.

Multiple earthquakes hit a mountainous area in Yunnan on Sept 7, leaving 81 people dead and 821 injured, the Ministry of Civil Affairs said Sunday.