(XINHUA)

Ships gather for a joint rescue drill at the Waigaoqiao Dock in Shanghai on August 24.

A large-scale rescue drill, combining maritime and air forces, was held as part of the ongoing World Maritime Rescue Conference 2011 in the city.

During the drill, two steamers simulated a collision and a large fire occurred. As soon as they received the alarm, a salvage center started its emergency rescue plan, despatching helicopters and rescue ships to the site, and realizing a rescue from the air, on the water's surface and underwater. The drill showed China's professional capability and the rapid development of its maritime salvage operations.