Large-Scale Rescue Operation Launched After 6.8-Magnitude Earthquake in Xigaze, Tibet

Following a powerful earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale that hit Dingri County in the Xigaze region of Tibet, Chinese authorities have initiated a substantial rescue operation. As of Tuesday afternoon, local officials reported that the earthquake has resulted in the death of 53 people and left 62 others injured. The seismic event occurred at 9:05 a.m. near Cuoguo Township, impacting around 6,900 residents across three townships and affecting 27 villages within a 20-kilometer radius of the epicenter.

In response to the crisis, the Western Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) has mobilized helicopters to transport critically injured individuals to safety. The PLA Xizang Military Command quickly put its emergency response plans into action, sending over 200 troops to the affected area for immediate rescue efforts. An additional contingent of 1,500 personnel and six helicopters are also on standby to provide further disaster relief.

To aid in the recovery process, the National Development and Reform Commission of China has allocated approximately 100 million yuan (around $13.65 million) from the central budget for the urgent restoration of essential public infrastructure that has been damaged, including roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals. Concurrently, the Ministry of Emergency Management, in collaboration with the National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, has dispatched 22,000 relief items to the impacted region, comprising tents, winter clothing, and folding beds to assist those affected by the disaster.