Mobile Houses Under Construction in Earthquake-Affected Xigaze

Workers are actively engaged in the construction of mobile houses in Quxar Township, located in Lnaze County, Xigaze, within the Xizang Autonomous Region of China. This initiative began on January 10, 2025, as part of the ongoing disaster relief efforts following a powerful earthquake that struck Dingri County, registering a magnitude of 6.8 last Tuesday.

Local officials are emphasizing the transition from temporary shelters to more stable prefabricated homes, with a commitment to complete these housing units before the upcoming Spring Festival. Liu Huazhong, the deputy mayor of Xigaze, highlighted the concerted efforts being made to manage resources effectively, including the distribution of houses, personnel, and machinery, despite the challenges posed by high-altitude conditions and adverse weather.

The intention is to ensure that all displaced individuals can find warmth and safety during the winter months. During a recent press conference, Lhamo Drolma, a deputy director in the Civil Affairs Department of Xizang, reported that a substantial amount of donations has been received, totaling 1.6 billion yuan ($233 million), which will be directed towards supporting the resettlement and basic living needs of the affected communities. The Civil Affairs Department has also allocated 6.6 million yuan to meet immediate needs for nearly 2,000 individuals in the disaster zone.

Authorities from various departments, including those overseeing natural resources and housing, have responded quickly to assess risks in impacted areas. An extensive inspection across 76 townships has revealed numerous geological hazards. Concurrently, efforts to ensure the safety of public infrastructure are ongoing, with thousands of homes and various structures being evaluated by professional teams. In addition to housing inspections, extensive patrols have addressed fire hazards at resettlement sites, while transportation departments are diligently inspecting vital infrastructure. The recovery efforts have also led to the retrieval of substantial cash and valuables, showcasing the rapid response to the disaster’s aftermath.