Drought conditions in China's southwestern region are affecting more than 61 million people. Some 18 million of them are suffering from a shortage of drinking water. Drought control authorities and local governments have launched an immediate initiative, to look for new water sources.

Yunnan Province has been seriously hit by the drought. Xinguang Village has become the first place in the province to benefit from the new initiative. Its deep underground well has now started to pump water.

Li Zhangcai, engineer of Yunnan Geological Survey and Design Institute, said, "We located the position for the well on March 4th. The next day, all equipment had been put in place. "

A villager said, "I'm so happy to see the new water resource."

The deep well is able to provide drinking water for 2,000 people and more than 33 hundred cattle.

Bangzhai villagers in Guizhou province are facing the difficulty of accessing water as well. Villagers had to spend half a day climbing down the mountain to find water. After detecting it, the local government decided to build a water station for villagers.

Local official Ni Zhijun said, "The capacity of the impending reservoir is around 150 cubic meters which can provide fresh water for residents and cattle and ensure some agricultural irrigation."

Since the village is located in a mountain area, heavy machinery cannot be used. Workers have to set up all the equipment by hand.

The total investment in the water station has reached 11 million yuan. On completion, it can ensure drinking water for 16,000 people and 1,200 cattle.

(CCTV.com March 25, 2010)