China, one of the countries that are most affected by earthquakes in the world, used to basically depend on manual observation and regional remote detection and measurement of earthquakes.

The establishment of the advanced digital earthquake observation network will help ensure a safe environment for China's social and economic development, said an official from the State Seismological Bureau.

The construction of the network started five years ago. All of the 47 observation stations are equipped with sophisticated facilities, and the technology level of the network meets advanced international levels.

Experts say the set up of the network will push forward China's development of earthquake science and minimize the damage of geological disasters.

(People's Daily 01/04/2001)