Dharamsala, Oct 23 (IANS) The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) Cabinet on Friday expressed concern over the devastating earthquake that struck Drachen County in the Nagchu region of Tibet and called for urgent humanitarian rescue and relief work.
In an official statement here, the Kashag (Cabinet) extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, expressed solidarity with affected communities, and announced prayers for the peaceful rebirth of those who lost their lives and the swift recovery of the injured.
The statement places particular emphasis on the urgent need for humanitarian rescue and relief, transparency in reporting casualties and destruction, protection of Tibetan religious traditions, and unrestricted access for humanitarian assistance.
The CTA has also raised concerns over reports that Tibetan volunteers travelling from other parts of Tibet to assist earthquake-affected communities are being prevented from entering the disaster area.
The central message of the Kashag statement is that humanitarian considerations must take precedence over political and administrative restrictions.
It has called upon governments and the international community to urge the Chinese authorities to ensure transparency and unhindered humanitarian access.
Regarding the humanitarian situation in Tibet, the CTA said the situation in the affected areas “remains serious, with substantial uncertainty regarding the extent of damage and the needs of survivors”.
The Kashag has identified several factors that could aggravate the disaster’s humanitarian consequences.
The earthquake occurred late at night on October 22, when many residents were likely inside their homes.
Winter is approaching, and nomadic families traditionally return to their winter settlements during this period.
The immediate humanitarian priorities include search-and-rescue operations, treatment of the injured, emergency accommodation, warm clothing, food, essential supplies, and the restoration of damaged infrastructure, the CTA added.
CTA President Penpa Tsering called for transparency during the 66th founding anniversary of Tibetan Children’s Village here and the CTA conducted official prayer service at the Tsuglagkhang Temple on Friday.
–IANS
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