Brave PLA soldiers trying to block flood water using their bodies — a classic image of Chinese state propaganda in action.
In the midst of devastating floods, state media showcases People’s Liberation Army (PLA) troops heroically linking arms and forming human walls against raging torrents to “protect the people and the Party.”

Videos and photos circulate widely, praising their sacrifice as the ultimate display of loyalty and bravery.

But netizens often see through the optics: while soldiers do risk their lives in disaster relief (as in past major floods in Hebei, Anhui, or earlier 1998 events), these dramatic human-shield moments highlight deeper issues — inadequate infrastructure, rushed construction, and a system that prioritizes propaganda over prevention.

Why rely on human bodies when better engineering, early warnings, and transparent governance could save more lives?

This isn’t just heroism; it’s a window into how the CCP turns real emergencies into loyalty spectacles. What do you think — genuine sacrifice or carefully staged narrative for the cameras?