China’s ‘Transformer’ Barge Rescues 6,000 From Floodwaters

China Anneng Construction Group deployed a new type of heavy-duty pontoon barge to evacuate over 6,000 staff and students from Guangxi Logistics Vocational and Technical College in Guigang, southern China, after floodwaters reached nearly 5 meters deep. Rescuers initially used inflatable and assault boats, but the process was slow due to the large number of people stranded and the depth of the water.

The barges, described as part-boat, part-bridge, and part-life raft, dramatically increased the speed of the evacuation. They arrived Wednesday night and completed the rescue by Thursday midday, bringing everyone to safety.

The operation demonstrates a new capability for China’s state-owned emergency response teams. While details on the barge’s full capabilities and future deployments are limited, it represents an advancement in flood rescue technology.