KATHMANDU, Nepal: A powerful earthquake measuring 7.9 on richter scale hit Nepal on Saturday morning, causing massive devastation while so far 876 people have reportedly been killed in Kathmandu.
The epicenter of the earthquake was 80 kilometers northwest of Kathmandu, and it was the strongest the country has witnessed in 81 years.
The earthquake also caused the collapse of several buildings in the center of Nepal’s capital including centuries-old temples.
The massive tremors were also felt across eastern and northern parts of India, and according to the Indian officials, at least 26 people have so far been killed including 17 in the eastern state of Bihar while dozens have sustained injuries as a result of the earthquake.
News has come in about an Earthquake in Nepal. Several parts of India also experienced tremors.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2015
We are in the process of finding more information and are working to reach out to those affected, both at home & in Nepal.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2015
The earthquake was also felt in different cities of Pakistan as the meteorological department said that the earthquake was felt in Azad Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, Peshawar and Lahore. However, no casualty or damage of property has been reported yet.
Pakistan offers all possible help to Nepal, India
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed shock and grief at reports of massive earthquake which caused devastation in Nepal and northern India today.
In his message, the prime minister extended heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the governments and the peoples of Nepal and India on the tragedy that has caused loss of life and property in both the countries.
The prime minister said that the government and people of Pakistan express solidarity with the affected people of Nepal and India and offer all possible help that may be required in their hour of grief.
Nawaz Sharif said that the government has instructed its missions in the two countries to approach their respective host governments to ascertain the damages caused and the requirement of relief assistance.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of Pakistan has been directed to be ready for taking relief assistance at a short notice.
