Islamabad (GNP): Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and injuries caused by the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Indonesia’s Flores Island.
Gilani described the tragedy as deeply painful and offered his condolences to the families who lost loved ones, praying for the recovery of those injured and for strength for grieving families.
He said Pakistan’s people, government, and parliament stand in solidarity with Indonesia during this difficult time, noting the long-standing, close relationship between the two countries built on mutual respect and strong parliamentary and people-to-people ties.
Gilani prayed for the peace of the departed and for patience and strength for the families affected by the disaster.
At least five people have been confirmed dead after a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Flores Island in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara Province early Saturday morning. Provincial Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena confirmed the casualties during a press briefing, stating that the victims were killed in their sleep when rubble from collapsing structures fell on them.
The earthquake struck shortly before 5:00 AM local time at a depth of 15 kilometers, according to Indonesia’s Agency for Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics. The tremor was followed by dozens of aftershocks, including a significant 6.1 magnitude jolt that further rattled the already shaken region. A tsunami warning was issued in the immediate aftermath but was lifted approximately three hours later once the threat had passed.
Search and rescue operations are currently underway as teams work to locate and free individuals who may be trapped beneath damaged buildings. The affected area, located roughly 600 miles from Bali, is remote and mountainous, which officials say is complicating efforts to fully assess the scale of destruction.
Visual footage from the port in Maumere captured the moment large sections of concrete broke away from the terminal building, striking passengers who were waiting to board an inter-island ferry.
Also read: 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Kills Five on Indonesia’s Flores Island
Several individuals were reportedly thrown into the sea after the ship’s gangway collapsed under the impact. In the hours following the quake, residents were seen fleeing on motorbikes toward higher ground after authorities issued the tsunami alert.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
