Early on October 7, a powerful magnitude-5.9 earthquake rattled the region near Quetta in Balochistan, Pakistan, leaving at least 20 people dead and injuring more than 300 others. The quake struck in the early hours, catching many residents off guard as they slept.
The majority of casualties have been reported in the Harnai district, east of Quetta, where numerous houses collapsed under the tremors. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to search for survivors amidst the rubble. Local hospitals are overwhelmed with the influx of injured, as medical staff strive to provide urgent care.
In response to the disaster, Pakistan’s military has deployed helicopters and engineering units to assist in rescue and relief operations. “Our teams are on the ground conducting search and evacuation efforts,” a military spokesperson said. The authorities are also providing food, shelter, and medical aid to those affected.
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest but least populated province, is prone to seismic activity due to its location near the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This recent quake highlights the ongoing need for infrastructure resilience and disaster preparedness in the region.
Global communities and organizations are extending support, as the nation grapples with the aftermath. The earthquake serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by communities in seismic zones and underscores the importance of coordinated emergency response efforts.
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Over 20 people killed and 300 injured in Pakistan earthquake
cgtn.com
