[Epoch Times, January 22, 2022](Epoch Times reporter Chen Ting comprehensive report) On Saturday (January 22) afternoon, a C-130 transport plane dispatched by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force arrived at Tonga Airport, carrying 2600 liters of drinking water to aid a country hit by volcanic eruptions and tsunamis.
Japan’s Defense Ministry said the plane left Komaki Air Force Base in Nagoya, Japan, on Thursday, carrying drinking water prepared by the Japan International Cooperation Agency. The plane landed at an air base in Australia on Friday and took off for Tonga on Saturday morning.
The Ministry of Defense stated that there will be 3 transport planes and 1 transport ship to deliver relief supplies in the follow-up.
Another C-130 transport aircraft has also reportedly arrived at its base in eastern Australia, which also delivered large quantities of drinking water. Two other C2 transport aircraft, in addition to drinking water, will also carry high-pressure cleaning equipment to assist Tonga in removing volcanic ash.
The Maritime Self-Defense Force’s transport ship “Osumi” (おおすみ) is also expected to leave for Tonga to deliver pressure washers and trolleys for ash removal.
Australia and New Zealand have also dispatched planes and transport ships to assist the victims of various supplies.
The eruption of Tonga’s submarine volcano last week sent a huge tsunami wave across the Pacific Ocean, killing at least three people and causing widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure in Tonga.
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said Tonga’s freshwater supply had been damaged by volcanic ash and salt water and ensuring access to safe drinking water was “a top priority”.
On Thursday, the United Nations also said about 84,000 people in the Tonga Islands were affected by the disaster. For this country with a population of only about 105,000 people, it is equivalent to more than 80% of the people being hit.
Responsible editor: Ye Ziwei