In a heartfelt message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his profound sadness over the loss of lives in the recent earthquake that struck Taiwan. Offering condolences to the grieving families and speedy recovery wishes to the injured, he reiterated India’s solidarity with Taiwan during this challenging time.
The earthquake, measuring 7.4 on the Richter Scale, rattled Taiwan’s east coast, triggering tsunami warnings in nearby Japanese islands, as reported by CNN. The aftermath has been marked by devastating consequences, with central and local authorities in Taiwan reporting nine casualties and hundreds injured. Tragically, the toll continues to rise as rescue efforts persist.
Among the reported deaths were three hikers in Hualien’s Taroko National Park and a truck driver near Dachingshui Tunnel, highlighting the perilous impact of the seismic activity. Additionally, incidents of falling rocks have claimed more lives, including a woman engaged in slope maintenance and a man in the Taiwan Cement Corp Heren mining area.
The earthquake’s aftermath has disrupted transportation, causing multiple rockfalls on major highways and trapping numerous individuals in tunnels and shuttle buses. Rescue operations are underway, with the National Fire Agency and medical teams mobilizing to provide assistance and support.
Speaking to reporters, Taiwan’s Deputy Health Minister Victor Wang assured adequate medical capacity, with hospitals and emergency centers coordinating efforts to address the growing medical needs. Rescue teams are tirelessly working to extract trapped individuals and stabilize affected structures, even as more buildings report tilting or partial collapse.
The resilience and cooperation exhibited by Taiwan’s authorities and citizens in the face of this tragedy are commendable. As the nation navigates through this crisis, international support and solidarity, exemplified by PM Modi’s message, underscore the global response to such calamities.