Strong Earthquake Strikes Tibet, Claiming Lives and Damaging Homes

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A powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck near Shigatse, Tibet, on January 7, 2025, resulting in at least 126 fatalities and injuring over 188 individuals. The quake, which occurred at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers, caused extensive damage to around 1,000 homes and sent residents running into the streets in nearby Nepal and the Indian state of Bihar.

Chinese President Xi Jinping urged prompt search and rescue operations to minimize casualties and assist those affected, particularly as winter temperatures are expected to drop significantly. The Dalai Lama expressed his sorrow over the tragedy, offering prayers for the victims and wishing a swift recovery to the injured.

Rescue efforts have mobilized over 1,500 firefighters and volunteers, along with 22,000 relief items sent to those impacted. Tremors were felt as far as Kathmandu, Nepal, approximately 400 kilometers away, where people evacuated buildings out of fear. To date, no significant damage has been reported in India.

Officials noted that Dingri County, the epicenter of the earthquake, is home to about 60,000 residents, and has recorded over 40 aftershocks since the initial quake. This region is vulnerable to seismic activity, with previous incidents causing widespread destruction and loss of life.

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