New Delhi, July 28: Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed concern on Tuesday regarding the earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture in Japan.
He took to the social media platform ‘X’ to share his thoughts, stating, “I am deeply worried about the earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan. During this challenging time, we stand in full solidarity and support with the Japanese government and its people. I pray for the safety and swift recovery of all those affected by the earthquake.”
Local media reports indicate that a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit southwestern Japan on Tuesday, resulting in one fatality and several injuries. There are fears that many individuals may be trapped under debris.
According to Kyodo News, approximately 30 employees are reported missing after an explosion at a shopping mall associated with Aeon Company in Kashima, Kumamoto Prefecture.
The Fire and Disaster Management Agency, along with police reports, confirmed that part of the second floor of the building collapsed. The explosion occurred after around 200 people had evacuated the area.
In a separate incident, a freight train derailed at Yatsushiro Station, although the train operator was unharmed.
Reports suggest that around 50 individuals have been transported to hospitals in Kumamoto. The local fire department has received alerts about several people being trapped inside their homes.
Kyodo reported that the earthquake struck at approximately 4:27 PM local time, with a depth of about ten kilometers. The Japan Meteorological Agency recorded a maximum intensity of seven on its seismic scale in the most affected areas.
A tsunami warning of one meter has been issued for the Ariake Sea and Yatsushiro Sea in southwestern Japan.
Both the Sendai nuclear power plant in Kagoshima Prefecture and the Genkai nuclear power plants in Saga Prefecture reported no irregularities.
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