KATHMANDU (Web Desk) – Nepal’s interior ministry on Saturday confirmed that at least 400 people have died as a powerful earthquake has rocked central Nepal, causing extensive damage to buildings.
Indian authorities have also said that over 20 causalities have been reported as a result of the quake, adding that, communication installments in the region were also affected by the tragedy.
The quake measured 7.9 and struck 81km (50 miles) northwest of the capital Kathmandu, the US Geological Survey said.
It quickly raised its initial 7.5 estimate of the magnitude.
Khatmandu airport has been closed for flight operations.
Tremors were felt as far away as the Indian capital Delhi and other cities in northern India – Patna, Lucknow, Kolkata, Jaipur, Chandigarh – which borders Nepal.
Indian authorities are responding. “We are in the process of finding more information and are working to reach out to those affected, both at home and in Nepal,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted.
Parts of Bangladesh and Pakistan were also shaken by the jolts, causing huge panic among the residents. Pakistani cricket team players, who are staying at a five-star hotel in Bangladeshi capital, also came out of their rooms.
The quake reportedly was 19 kilometres deep.
In Delhi and parts of the National Capital Region, people were seen running out of their houses after buildings shook for well over a minute. However, there are no reports of any damage in Delhi.
