Families of victims in last month's gas well blowout start receiving compensation from China National Petroleum Corporation, owner of the gas well. 

The company will pay at least US$9,000 for every victim, and the maximum compensation is expected to be double that.

Tang Chunwu lost several relatives in the accident, and has thus far received 300,000 yuan, or US$37, 500.

"This is a kind of consolation for us relatives of those killed in the burst."

Farmers will also be compensated for lost livestock at a higher than market price.

Two hundred and forty-three have been confirmed dead in the gas well blast. To date, 186 compensation contracts have been signed, and the compensation amount totals US$3.75 million. 

(Cri.com.cn January 7, 2004)