A devastating earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 hits the Tibetan region on Tuesday morning, leading to significant loss of life and widespread damage. The powerful quake, centered in Tibet’s Tingri County in Xigaze City, has claimed at least 95 lives and left over 130 people injured, according to Chinese state media reports. The tremors extended their reach to neighboring Nepal and parts of India, causing panic and disruption across the region.
In Nepal, the tremors brought back harrowing memories of past seismic disasters, sending residents of Kathmandu rushing out of their homes, according to reports. Although no major damage or casualties have been reported in Nepal, minor cracks in buildings and infrastructure have raised concerns about potential aftershocks. The earthquake’s impact was also felt in northern India, including Delhi-NCR and Bihar, where residents reported strong shaking. Fortunately, no significant damage or injuries have been reported in these areas.
The United States Geological Survey pinpointed the earthquake’s epicenter at 93 km northeast of Lobuche, near the Nepal-Tibet border, at a depth of 10 kilometers. The region’s geological instability, situated along the fault line between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, frequently results in seismic activity.
In Tibet, the aftermath of the earthquake has been catastrophic. Shigatse, one of the holiest cities in Tibet, witnessed severe destruction, with videos showing collapsed buildings and rescue teams navigating through debris. The frigid temperatures in Tingri County, which are expected to plummet further, have compounded the challenges faced by rescuers and displaced residents. Both power and water supplies have been disrupted, adding to the region’s woes.
The Chinese government has mobilized extensive rescue operations, deploying drones and air force units to the affected areas. President Xi Jinping has called for all-out efforts to minimize casualties and ensure the swift resettlement of those affected. The search for survivors continues amid fears that the death toll could rise further.
Meanwhile, tourism activities in Tingri, a popular base for climbers heading to Mount Everest, have been halted. Authorities have closed sightseeing areas and relocated visitors to safer locations. The earthquake has also led to the cancellation of scheduled Everest tours, reflecting the broader impact on the region’s tourism sector.
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