Powerful 7.4 Earthquake Jolts Nepal , 16 Deaths Reported

12 May, New Delhi

A fresh high magnitude searthquake measuring 7.4 on Richter scale Tuesday struck Nepal. There were five big aftershocks within next 45 minutes of the quake that left at least 16 deaths and over 300 injured ,initial reports said.

Nepal had witnessed a devastating temblor two weeks ago that flattened houses and buildings killing more than 8,000 people.

US Geological Survey said, the epicentre of the quake, which struck at 12:35 PM, was some 83 kilometres east of Kathmandu. People in the capital Kathmandu ran out of their houses. Tremors were also felt in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, West Bengal and several part of North East India. It was also felt in China and Pakistan.

Briefing media in New Delhi, Director General Indian Meteorological Department, L S Rathore said, the epicentre of the earthquake is 60 km east of Kathmandu with depth of 10 Kilometers. He said, three after shocks were also felt after the quake. There has been no report of any casualty or damage so far. AIR correspondent reports that Delhi Metro service was disrupted for a while due to tremors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed all concerned authorities to be on alert for carrying out rescue and relief operations if required in view of earthquake which hit several parts of the country and Nepal this afternoon. Modi held a high level meeting in New Delhi and took stock of the situation following the fresh tremor.

However there is no detailed reports of loss of life and property so far due to earthquake which hit several parts of India and neighbouring Nepal this afternoon.

Central government is in constant touch with the States and details are being ascertained. The Home Ministry has put the teams of National Disaster Response Force on alert.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh has asked the people not to panic over the earthquake. Talking to reporters outside Parliament, Singh said India will provide full support to Nepal wherever required in the wake of the today’s high magnitude quake.