China’s Gansu province faces a direct economic loss of 532 million yuan ($74.6 million) due to a recent magnitude-6.2 earthquake, the deadliest in a decade. Bloomberg, citing the state broadcaster, reveals estimates of losses, with 345 million yuan attributed to animal husbandry and 102 million yuan to crop production in Gansu.
The earthquake’s epicenter, between Gansu and Qinghai provinces, caused extensive damage and triggered landslides, destroying highways and rural roads. Many clay and mud houses were damaged, resulting in over 148 deaths and 781 injuries, according to Xinhua News Agency. More than 139,000 people have been relocated to emergency shelters in the affected provinces.
Gansu, located in northwest China and ranked 27th in economic output among provinces, has a history of seismic activity, particularly in its eastern region. The impoverished province had experienced a magnitude 6.6 earthquake a decade ago, claiming 95 lives.
The recent disaster highlights the vulnerability of Gansu’s high-altitude region, where sub-zero temperatures are common in winter. As authorities address the immediate aftermath, the economic impact and reconstruction efforts pose significant challenges for the already struggling province.
In conclusion, the recent devastating earthquake in Gansu, China, not only claimed lives and caused injuries but also inflicted a substantial economic blow. With a direct loss of $74.6 million, the province faces formidable challenges in recovery, compounded by its pre-existing economic struggles. The reconstruction efforts ahead will test the resilience of Gansu, necessitating coordinated efforts to rebuild infrastructure, support affected communities, and fortify the region against future seismic threats.
Check here for the latest updates in Hindi!