126 Dead, 188 Injured in 6.8-Magnitude Earthquake in China’s Xizang Region

A 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region on Tuesday morning, leaving 126 people dead and 188 injured, while thousands of homes on the northern slope of the Himalayas were destroyed.

The quake hit at 9:05 a.m. (Beijing Time), with the epicenter located in Tsogo Township, Dingri County, within the city of Xigaze. Officials reported 27 villages and approximately 6,900 people living within a 20-kilometer radius of the epicenter.

A preliminary survey revealed that 3,609 houses have collapsed, and over 30,000 residents have been relocated, according to the Xigaze city government. Rescuers have saved 407 trapped individuals, but efforts to locate others continue.

In areas like Tsogo Township and Chamco Township, the worst affected regions, residents described the chaos caused by the quake. “The first shock wave struck before dawn, shaking everything. Then came a stronger one,” said Pasang Tsering, a villager from Metog.

Chamco’s Gurum Village reported severe losses, with 22 deaths, including 11 children. “Young people struggled to escape; for the elderly and children, it was nearly impossible,” said Tsering Phuntsog, the village’s Party chief, who lost his 74-year-old mother and has family members still trapped in debris.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for an all-out rescue effort to minimize casualties. Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing is leading a team overseeing relief operations on-site.

Over 12,000 rescuers, including firefighters, soldiers, police officers, and specialized teams, have been deployed. Relief supplies totaling 22,000 items—such as winter coats, quilts, and folding beds—have been sent to the affected areas.

The central government has allocated 200 million yuan (approximately $27.8 million) for disaster relief and post-quake recovery. The Red Cross Society of China has also dispatched thousands of items, including insulated jackets and tents, to aid victims in high-altitude areas where temperatures are expected to drop to -17°C.

Telecommunications in the three hardest-hit townships have been restored, ensuring better coordination of ongoing relief efforts.

Dingri County, home to over 61,000 people, lies on the northern slope of the Himalayas, bordering Nepal. It hosts the northern base camp of Mount Qomolangma (Everest).

Authorities have temporarily closed the Mount Qomolangma scenic area, ensuring the safety of tourists and staff. Meanwhile, Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Rinpoche in Xigaze, reported no damage despite feeling the tremors.

The region is forecasted to experience mostly sunny weather in the coming days, which may aid rescue and recovery operations. Temperatures, however, will range from -17°C to 8°C, posing additional challenges for displaced residents.

The earthquake has left a trail of devastation in Xizang, with thousands mourning lost lives and struggling to rebuild. China’s rapid mobilization of resources underscores the gravity of the situation, as the nation rallies to support its affected citizens. (Xinhua)