At least 36 people have died following a series of powerful earthquakes that struck Tibet early Tuesday. The quakes sent shockwaves as far as Delhi-NCR and various parts of North India, prompting widespread alarm.
The most severe earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.1 on the Richter scale, hit Xizang near the Nepal-Tibet border at 6:35 am, reported the National Centre for Seismology. Two significant aftershocks, measuring 4.7 and 4.9, followed in the same region. Additionally, Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, was hit by a separate quake of 6.8 magnitude, according to Chinese authorities.
The tremors caused significant panic across neighboring regions, including Bihar, West Bengal, and northeastern states like Assam. In Patna and other parts of Bihar, strong tremors were felt, while Kathmandu residents reported notable shaking. “I was sleeping when the bed started shaking,” said Meera Adhikari, a Kathmandu resident, who shared her experience of evacuating quickly with her child.
Although the region around Shigatse frequently experiences seismic activity, with 29 earthquakes of magnitude 3 or higher occurring within a 200-km radius over the past five years, none have matched the intensity of Tuesday’s 7.1 quake. This latest seismic event has heightened concerns about the region’s susceptibility to natural disasters due to its location along tectonic plates.
Chinese and international authorities are currently assessing the damage and coordinating rescue and relief efforts in the affected areas. While there have been no immediate reports of significant infrastructure damage in Tibet, officials continue to monitor the situation closely. In India, officials confirm that the northern states affected by the tremors have not sustained significant damage or casualties. Residents in these regions have been advised to stay vigilant and adhere to earthquake preparedness guidelines.
As the region grapples with the aftermath, rescue teams are working to assist affected communities, reflecting the urgent need for continued vigilance and preparedness in seismic hotspots.
