Scores dead in Shigatse as magnitude 7.1 earthquake hits Tibet

Tue Jan 07 16:09:02 IST 2025: **Devastating Earthquake Strikes Tibetan Holy City; Death Toll Rises to 95**

SHIGATSE, TIBET – A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Shigatse, a holy city in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, on Tuesday morning, leaving at least 95 people dead and 130 injured. The quake, which struck at approximately 9:00 AM local time (1:00 AM GMT), had a depth of 10 kilometers, according to the US Geological Survey. Strong aftershocks followed.

Tremors were felt as far away as Nepal and parts of India, though thankfully, no major damage or casualties were reported in those countries. However, in Shigatse, the impact was catastrophic, with videos showing widespread destruction of homes and buildings. Rescue workers are battling freezing temperatures (around -8°C) and disrupted power and water supplies to reach survivors.

The earthquake, one of the deadliest to hit China in recent years, has caused significant damage to over 1,000 houses, according to Chinese state media. The area, located near Mount Everest and a popular base for climbers, has seen its tourist sites closed. The Chinese air force has launched rescue operations, utilizing drones and helicopters to assist in the search and rescue efforts. President Xi Jinping has called for a full-scale mobilization to minimize casualties and provide resettlement for those affected.

Shigatse, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, holds significant religious importance for Tibetan Buddhists. The region’s location on a major geological fault line makes it prone to seismic activity. The incident has reignited fears of another major earthquake, particularly in Nepal, where residents recalled the devastation of the 2015 earthquake that claimed nearly 9,000 lives. While a researcher at the China Earthquake Networks Center indicated the likelihood of another major quake is low, the possibility of a magnitude 5 quake remains. China’s tight control over information in Tibet makes it difficult to fully assess the situation, but international aid organizations are closely monitoring the developing situation.