New Delhi, August 19: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed deep sorrow on Tuesday over the devastating earthquake in Indonesia that resulted in numerous fatalities. India has committed to providing all possible assistance during this crisis.
During a media briefing held biweekly in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “A massive earthquake struck Indonesia, leading to a significant loss of life and many injuries. Many individuals have been left homeless. We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and extend our condolences to the victims’ families. We also pray for the swift recovery of the injured and the safety of those involved in rescue and relief operations.”
He further emphasized, “In this difficult time, India stands with Indonesia, and we are dedicated to offering all possible support for relief and rescue efforts in the country.”
According to Indonesian officials, the death toll from the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the eastern Nusa Tenggara province on Saturday has risen to 70, with 132 individuals injured.
Bramantyo, the operations director of Indonesia’s National Search and Rescue Agency, reported that among the injured, 40 are in critical condition, while 92 have sustained minor injuries.
With no further information on missing persons, search and rescue teams have shifted their focus to scouring the area and assisting in recovery operations led by the National Disaster Management Agency.
Meanwhile, the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency recorded 2,357 aftershocks in the Flores region by Tuesday afternoon. According to Xinhua News Agency, the strongest aftershock registered a magnitude of 6.2, with 24 aftershocks exceeding a magnitude of 5, and 72 tremors felt by residents.
The search and rescue agency has deployed helicopters to remote areas to send medical staff and evacuate residents in need of treatment. More than 5,000 people have been displaced across relief centers in the province. This earthquake occurred on August 15.
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