A Strongest earthquake of 7.2 magnitude hit Taiwan after 25 years on Wednesday morning. This earthquake damages many buildings, highways. Moreover, death toll rises to 4 and more than 50 people injured in this earthquake. It sparks Tsunami warning for southern Japan and the Philippines that was later lifted. The United Daily News, a local newspaper, stated that three hikers lost their lives in rockslides at Taroko National Park, which is near the epicenter of the earthquake offshore.
According to some reports, at least 26 building collapsed, more half in Hualine. The death all occurred in Hualien county which is the epicenter of the quake.
The rescue operation is carried out to save the people who are trapped in the collapse building. About 20 people trapped are rescued. The rescue operation is still going on.
After the massive earthquake, a landslide was reported in Xiulin, which is located on the eastern coast of Taiwan.
Taiwan TV stations aired videos of buildings tilting dangerously in Hualien after an earthquake hit just offshore around 8 am. This happened when people were heading to work and school. The quake was 15.5km deep, as reported by Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration.
Japan PM Fumio Kishida Promised to Taiwan Support
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated on Wednesday (April 3) that Japan is prepared to offer assistance to its “important friend” Taiwan.
In a statement on X, he said that “The memory of Taiwan’s warm helping hand when the Great East Japan Earthquake occurred in 2011 is still fresh. I also felt Taiwan’s warmth again when the earthquake occurred in Noto at the beginning of this year. โTaiwan, our important friend, we sincerely appreciate the help time and time again. Now, our island neighbor faces a difficult situation; Japan is willing to assist Taiwan with any necessary support.”
India Taipei Association shared a helpline number for Indians residing Taiwan after Earthquake
In response to the significant earthquake, an emergency helpline has been established for Indians residing in Taiwan. The India Taipei Association shared a helpline number and email address where citizens can seek assistance, guidance, or clarification.
A powerful earthquake struck Taiwan, felt even in parts of China like Fujian province and Shanghai, according to Chinese state media and a Reuters witness.
The Taipei city government reported no major damage, with the subway system quickly back in operation.
However, over 87,000 households in Taiwan remained without electricity, though the nuclear power stations were unaffected.
Taiwan’s high-speed rail also reported no damage or injuries but anticipated delays for safety inspections. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) evacuated some plants as a precaution, but reported no operational issues.
The quake, the largest since 1999, caused significant shaking in Hualien county, ranking as an “Upper 6” on the intensity scale, where unreinforced concrete-block walls could collapse and people may struggle to stay standing. This scale is used to assess the severity of earthquakes.
