Taiwan Earthquake: Search Operations Underway for Two Missing Indians
Two individuals from India have been reported missing in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck Taiwan on Wednesday. The missing persons comprise a man and a woman, last seen near Taroko Gorge. In close proximity to the earthquake’s epicenter.
Efforts are currently underway to locate them, according to sources familiar with the situation. The earthquake, described as the most powerful in 25 years. Resulted in the loss of at least nine lives and left over 1,000 individuals injured, causing widespread destruction.
The epicenter of the quake was located off the coast of rural, mountainous Hualien County. Where numerous buildings suffered severe damage, some tilting dangerously. Meanwhile, in Taipei, approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) away, older structures experienced falling tiles, prompting schools to evacuate students to open spaces, providing them with yellow safety helmets. Reports emerged of children shielding themselves with textbooks as aftershocks continued.
Taiwan Earthquake: Search Operations Underway for Two Missing Indians
Rescue operations were immediately launched in Hualien, with rescue workers scouring the area for survivors. And using heavy machinery to stabilize compromised structures. The number of individuals reported missing, trapped, or in need of assistance fluctuated as authorities gathered more information and worked tirelessly to locate and aid those affected.
Despite the challenges, approximately 70 workers stranded in two rock quarries were reported safe, although access routes were obstructed by fallen rocks. Plans were underway to airlift six of these workers to safety the following day.
Residents across the affected areas described their fear and shock at the intensity of the earthquake and subsequent aftershocks. The seismic event triggered 24 landslides and caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and tunnels. Minor structural damage was also reported at various sites, including the national legislature, a historic building converted from a pre-World War II school, and sections of the main airport in Taoyuan.