In a devastating turn of events, a powerful 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck China’s Gansu and neighbouring Qinghai provinces, claiming at least 111 lives and injuring around 200 people. The earthquake rattled an ethnic county in northwest Gansu province around midnight on Monday, causing significant damage to homes, roads, and infrastructure.
Deadly 6.2 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Parts Of China
President Xi Jinping has responded swiftly to the crisis, calling for comprehensive search and rescue operations and providing appropriate support to those affected. His directive aims to safeguard lives and property in the wake of the earthquake’s aftermath. Xi’s guidance includes efforts for the relocation of impacted individuals and prioritizing measures to ensure the well-being of the affected population.
National Emergency Response Elevated
The earthquake relief headquarters of the State Council and the Ministry of Emergency Management have elevated the national earthquake emergency response to Level II, signifying the gravity of the situation. This heightened response underscores the government’s commitment to deploying extensive resources and aid to the affected regions.
Details of the Earthquake
The earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.2, struck at 11:59 p.m. (local time) on Monday, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center. The epicenter, located in Liugou Township, is approximately 8 km from the county seat of Jishishan Bao’an in Dongxiang, Sala Autonomous County, within the Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture of Gansu. Witnesses reported damage to houses, roads, and other critical infrastructure, with power outages and water disruptions affecting multiple villages.
Challenges in the Aftermath
Local meteorological authorities have predicted a drop in the lowest temperature to minus 10 degrees Celsius on Tuesday in Jishishan, adding an additional challenge to ongoing relief efforts. Responders face significant obstacles in reaching affected areas due to damaged transportation routes and disrupted services.
Swift Action and Relief Measures
In response to the disaster, the regional fire and rescue department has mobilized 580 responders, supported by 88 fire trucks, 12 search and rescue canines, and over 10,000 sets of gear. Leaders, including Hu Changsheng, Party chief of Gansu, and Ren Zhenhe, governor of Gansu, have rushed to the disaster area to oversee and coordinate rescue and relief operations.
Transportation Disruptions
To ensure safety, the railway administration has halted both passenger and freight trains passing through the earthquake-affected area. A thorough inspection of railway tracks has been initiated to assess safety and prevent potential risks.
As the affected regions grapple with the aftermath of this tragic earthquake, the Chinese government’s urgent and coordinated response demonstrates a commitment to mitigating further loss of life and providing essential support to the affected communities.
