PM Modi writes to Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida as earthquake toll nears 100

“I express my deepest condolence to the bereaved families of those who lost their lives,” Modi said.

Published on: Jan 5, 2024, 18:58:53 IST

By HT News Desk

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his condolences to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in the wake of a major earthquake in Japan that killed nearly 100 people.

"I express my deepest condolence to the bereaved families of those who lost their lives. We stand in solidarity with Japan and its people affected by the disaster," PM Modi said.

"As a special strategic and global partner, India values its relationship with Japan, and is ready to extend all possible assistance at this hour," he added.

A massive 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula and surrounding areas in central Japan on Monday. Due to rubble and severed roads, the affected regions remained inaccessible for search and rescue operations. The disaster claimed the lives of at least 94 people, displaced approximately 33,000 individuals from their homes, and left over 200 people missing, Reuters reported.

Access to the northern part of the remote Noto Peninsula was restricted for over 24 hours after the earthquake. Speaking at a disaster emergency meeting on Tuesday, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida informed that the location was restricted as it remained inaccessible due to a damaged road.

Wajima City in Ishikawa Prefecture witnessed structural damage and fires as a consequence of the earthquake. Fire department officials reported that 25 buildings, including houses, collapsed in Wajima City.

Approximately 200 buildings, including shops and houses, were believed to have been burned around Asaichi Street, a popular tourist spot. The United States Geological Survey indicated that the earthquake occurred on the Noto Peninsula around 4:10 pm (local time) at a depth of 10 kilometers.

Meanwhile, on Friday, the United States also announced its readiness to provide military and logistical support and aid to areas in Japan severely affected by an earthquake.

(With agencies' inputs)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Get the latest India News, breaking headlines and real-time updates from across the country. Stay informed about politics, government policies, crime, weather and major national developments.