53 people died, rescue work continues

The earthquake that occurred on Tuesday morning in Tibet, an autonomous region of China, caused massive devastation. Due to this earthquake of 6.8 magnitude on the Richter scale, 53 people have died so far and many are injured. According to the Regional Disaster Relief Headquarters, the earthquake was felt at 9:05 am local time. The epicenter of the earthquake was in Dingri County, Shigaze City, Tibet Autonomous Region.

Epicenter and impact of earthquake

• The epicenter of the earthquake was located at 28.5° north latitude and 87.45° east longitude.
• Depth: The epicenter of the earthquake was 10 kilometers below the ground.
• Most affected: Dingri County.
• Regional population: 6,900 people within a 20 kilometer radius, while the total population of Dingri County is more than 61,000.

scene of devastation

The earthquake’s tremors were so intense that many buildings collapsed and walls of houses broke. Video shared by China’s state broadcaster CCTV showed rescue workers carrying out relief work amid the debris.

• Indoors: Shelves were seen shaking rapidly, and items fell to the ground.
• Roads and buildings: Debris was seen scattered in front of eateries.
• Exodus of people: Panicked people were seen running through the corridors.
• Blankets and quilts are being given to the local people to protect them from the cold.

rescue and relief operations

China has launched a massive relief operation for disaster management.

• Emergency Services: China Earthquake Administration implemented Level-II emergency response.
• Relief Material:
  • More than 22,000 cotton tents, coats, quilts, and folding beds were sent.
  • Special material is being sent for cold areas.
• Rescuers:
  • More than 1,500 local firefighters and rescue workers were deployed.
  • The work team has been sent to the affected area.

Regional population and impact

There are 27 villages in the earthquake affected area of ​​Dingri County, where the earthquake had the maximum impact. According to official figures, the population of this county is more than 61,000.

Government’s response

Shijang Autonomous Region has issued a Level-II emergency response to the earthquake. To complete the relief work quickly, the central authorities are sending special assistance to the earthquake affected area.