(ECNS) -- In response to a 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Dingri County in Xigaze, Xizang Autonomous Region, Chinese authorities have launched a large-scale rescue operation. The disaster has claimed 53 lives and left 62 injured as of Tuesday afternoon, according to local officials.
The earthquake, which struck at 9:05 a.m. in Cuoguo Township, affected approximately 6,900 residents across 3 townships and 27 villages within 20 kilometers of the epicenter.
The Western Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) deployed helicopters to airlift critically injured individuals, while the PLA Xizang Military Command swiftly implemented its emergency plan.
The first batch of over 200 troops has been dispatched to the disaster zone to carry out rescue operations and an additional 1,500 personnel and six helicopters are on standby to assist with disaster relief.
To support recovery efforts, China's National Development and Reform Commission has allocated 100 million yuan (around $13.65 million) in central budgetary investment for emergency restoration of damaged infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Emergency Management, in coordination with the country’s National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, has delivered 22,000 relief items to the affected area, including tents, winter clothing, and folding beds.
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