Taiwan was rocked by its most powerful earthquake in a quarter of a century, claiming the lives of at least ten people and injuring over 1,000 individuals. The quake, measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale, struck during the morning commute, causing widespread devastation and triggering a massive rescue operation.
Search for Survivors
The earthquake’s epicentre was near the city of Hualien, where buildings were damaged, roads were destroyed, and landslides occurred. Rescue teams mobilised quickly to search for survivors trapped under debris and in collapsed structures. Dramatic footage captured helicopter rescues of miners trapped in a quarry and efforts to free individuals stranded in tunnels and remote areas.
Rescue Operations
The death toll climbed steadily as authorities worked to assess the extent of the damage and locate missing individuals. Among the affected areas was the Taroko National Park, where a hotel and activity centre became isolated due to road damage. Over 660 people were reported trapped in various locations, including the hotel and mining sites. Rescue efforts were hampered by ongoing aftershocks and the challenging terrain.
International Support and Recovery Measures
Taiwan’s government co-ordinated with international partners and welcomed assistance from abroad to bolster rescue and recovery efforts. Meanwhile, local authorities focused on restoring essential services and infrastructure to affected areas. Rail services were partially restored, and emergency supplies were airlifted to those stranded in remote locations. Despite the scale of the disaster, Taiwan’s chip-making industry, a vital component of the global supply chain, reported minimal disruption.
Conclusion:
As Taiwan grapples with the aftermath of this tragic earthquake, the immediate priority is providing aid and support to those affected. Recovery efforts are underway, with rescue teams working tirelessly to assist survivors and locate missing individuals. The coming days will be crucial as the nation works to rebuild and overcome the challenges posed by this natural disaster.
