China's efficiency with which the leaders have responded to the massive earthquake destruction in Sichuan Province in southwest China has been "impressive," the leading local daily newspaper The Daily Telegraph said in a commentary Friday.

The 50,000 troops dispatched to Wenchuan, the epicenter of a 7.8-magnitude earthquake, have made an immediate impact in helping to rescue trapped survivors and distributing vital food and medical supplies, the daily said.

"The operation has been well-managed, with airports closed to civilian traffic so as not to impede relief flights," it said.

"Television bulletins broadcast appeals for blood donations, and priority has been given to restoring electricity and clearing roads," it said.

"The Chinese have demonstrated their proficiency at crisis management," and China is being showered with praise for its compassionate and well-disciplined response to the catastrophe in Sichuan, the daily said.

(Xinhua News Agency May 17, 2008)