On January 7, 2025, a devastating earthquake struck near Shigatse in Tibet, registering a magnitude of 6.8 according to the China Earthquake Networks Centre and 7.1 as per the U.S. Geological Survey. The earthquake, with a shallow depth of 10 km, caused widespread destruction and claimed at least 126 lives, leaving around 188 injured. Tremors were felt in neighboring countries, including Nepal, Bhutan, and India.The disaster led to the collapse of over 3,600 homes and significant damage to infrastructure, such as roads and bridges. Rescue efforts mobilized over 1,500 personnel to provide aid, distribute emergency supplies like tents and blankets, and conduct search operations. Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered comprehensive rescue measures to mitigate the crisis.The earthquake’s proximity to Mount Everest, approximately 80 km north, prompted the temporary suspension of tourist activities in the region. In Nepal, while the damages were minimal, the event revived memories of the catastrophic 2015 earthquake.This region's vulnerability to seismic activity stems from the ongoing tectonic collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates. The 2025 quake highlights the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience to minimize the impact of such natural calamities in the future.
