Tibet Earthquake: 53 Dead, Relief Efforts Ongoing
Powerful Earthquake in Tibet Kills 53, Rescue Operations Underway
Photo: ANI
A powerful earthquake struck Tibet on Tuesday morning, resulting in severe destruction and claiming 53 lives, while many others were injured. The earthquake registered a magnitude of 6.8 on the Richter scale. According to the regional disaster relief headquarters, tremors were felt at 9:05 AM local time. The worst-affected area was Dingri County in Shigatse City of the Tibet Autonomous Region. The epicenter was located at 28.5 degrees north latitude and 87.45 degrees east longitude.
According to China’s Earthquake Networks Center (CENC), the earthquake had a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. Notably, Tibet is officially referred to as “Xizang” by Chinese authorities. Reports indicate that the tremors were so intense that many buildings collapsed. State broadcaster CCTV released several videos showing the ruins of houses and damaged walls. Rescue workers can be seen amidst the debris, and thick blankets have been distributed to locals to protect them from the cold.
Some footage shows people running through hallways in panic, while cupboards inside homes shook violently, causing items to fall onto the floor. In one such video, rubble can be seen scattered outside a roadside eatery.
Relief Efforts Underway, Emergency Supplies Sent
Following the disaster, China’s earthquake administration activated a level-II emergency response. A task force was dispatched to aid in relief efforts. The Xizang Autonomous Region also declared a level-II emergency response. Around 22,000 relief items, including cotton tents, coats, quilts, and folding beds, have been sent to the affected areas. Additionally, special supplies for cold and high-altitude regions are being provided by central authorities.
Over 1,500 local firefighters and rescue personnel have been deployed to assist in relief operations. The epicenter was identified in Tsogo Township of Dingri County, home to approximately 6,900 people within a 20-kilometer radius. Official data reveals that Dingri County has a total population exceeding 61,000. Rescue operations and relief distribution continue as the region deals with the aftermath of the quake.
