Hong Li, Vice-Chairman of the Communist Party Committee and director of Tibet’s Emergency Management Department, reiterated that the quake left 126 dead and 188 injured.

The official stressed that as of Wednesday noon, 646 aftershocks had been recorded, the largest aftershock measuring 4.4 in magnitude on the Richter scale.

Rescue teams continue working under difficult conditions to provide aid and ensure the affected population’s safety.

Local authorities also focus on meeting evacuees’ needs and restoring essential services in the affected areas.

jrr/iff/oda/idm