Search Intensifies for Survivors of Tibet's Devastating Earthquake

Wednesday 08 January 2025 - 13:33

The search for survivors of the powerful earthquake that struck Tibet has become increasingly urgent. Over 400 people trapped under rubble have been rescued, though many remain missing amid the freezing conditions, a day after the magnitude 6.8 tremor struck the region.

The epicenter of the earthquake was in the Tingri region of Tibet, located about 80 kilometers from Mount Everest. The tremor, one of the strongest in recent years, also affected neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and India. The region, already vulnerable due to its high-altitude location, saw temperatures dip to as low as -18°C overnight, posing serious risks of hypothermia for those trapped under debris or without shelter.

As rescuers work tirelessly, the clock is ticking, with survivors facing extreme conditions. According to experts, even those uninjured may only have a few hours to survive without proper shelter. The immediate response has included setting up temporary shelters, with tents erected by aid workers and military personnel. While there have been at least 126 confirmed fatalities and 188 injuries in Tibet, there have been no reports of deaths in neighboring countries. However, significant destruction has been reported, with over 3,600 homes destroyed in the Shigatse region, home to nearly 800,000 people.

Efforts to assist those affected by the disaster have seen the relocation of over 46,500 people. In addition, more than 14,000 rescue personnel have been deployed to assist in the recovery operation. In Tibet's most populous county, Tingri, which borders Nepal, the local population has been significantly impacted. Despite the scale of the disaster, no damage has been reported to the Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, a historic site of Tibetan Buddhism.

The earthquake has drawn expressions of sympathy from international leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te.