(KPL/Yonhap)Acting President Han Duck-soo said Thursday the government will make a "lasting" recovery from the nation's worst-ever wildfires by crafting comprehensive measures aimed at responding to climate change and reviving local economies.

Han made the remark during a government meeting discussing progress in recovery efforts following deadly wildfires in the southeastern provinces of North and South Gyeongsang last month.

"We will not stop at simply restoring the previous state but make a lasting recovery," he said. "As a result of these wildfires, we will come up with comprehensive measures to respond to climate change, revive local economies and protect the ecosystem, and bring the wildfire-damaged areas back to their feet."

Han stressed the urgency of resolving housing issues for the more than 3,700 people who remain displaced and instructed the health ministry to draw up detailed support measures for the senior citizens who have lost their homes.

Addressing the environment and oceans ministries, Han called for thorough measures to prevent pollution from wildfire debris and preparation against wind and flood damage in the coming months.

"I ask each ministry and local government to stay alert and do their best to protect the people's lives and property through preemptive measures to an excessive degree and continuous inspections," he said.

The wildfires, which broke out on March 21 in the county of Sancheong, South Gyeongsang Province, and the following day in Uiseong, have been recorded as Republic of Korea's worst ever, resulting in 75 casualties, including 31 deaths.

The area of damage has been provisionally tallied at 104,000 hectares.

KPL