Vanuatu, a South Pacific nation, is grappling with the aftermath of a powerful magnitude-7.3 earthquake that struck its capital, Port Vila, on Tuesday. The disaster has claimed at least 14 lives and left hundreds injured, plunging the country into a state of crisis.
The earthquake has crippled essential services across Vanuatu. All supermarkets have reportedly closed their doors, leaving residents scrambling for basic necessities. In a dire situation, only a few Chinese-owned stores remain open, offering water and biscuits to those in need.
While water supply is gradually being restored to some areas, electricity remains a scarce commodity, with power only available in the heart of the city center. The lack of electricity is hampering rescue and recovery efforts, as authorities race against time to locate and save those trapped under rubble.
The local government has mobilized emergency response teams to assist affected communities. Rescue operations are underway, with teams working tirelessly to reach survivors and provide medical assistance to the injured.
The tragedy has touched international communities as well. Among the deceased are two Chinese nationals, as confirmed by Chinese Ambassador to Vanuatu Li Minggang on Wednesday. The loss highlights the global connections within Vanuatu’s community and the widespread impact of the disaster.
As Vanuatu confronts this challenging time, support from neighboring countries and international aid organizations is crucial. The resilience of the Vanuatuan people is being tested, but efforts continue to rebuild and restore normalcy in the wake of the earthquake.
For residents and the global community alike, the focus remains on aiding those affected and ensuring that resources reach where they are most needed. The road to recovery may be long, but collective efforts offer hope for healing and reconstruction.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
