Post-Earthquake Recovery Efforts Continue in Eastern Taiwan
In the wake of the devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake that struck eastern Taiwan, the resilience of the local population is being tested as the number of injured surpasses 1,000. Despite this, the death toll has mercifully remained at nine. The quake, which is the strongest to hit the region in a quarter of a century, occurred early Wednesday morning, disrupting the daily routines of those heading to work and school.
The epicenter was located in Hualien County, an area known for its rural landscapes and low population density. While buildings in Taipei experienced violent shaking, the capital city escaped with minimal damage and disruption. The Taiwanese fire department has been diligently updating the public, with the latest figures indicating 1,050 injuries and 52 individuals still unaccounted for.
Relief came as reports confirmed that a significant number of hotel workers, who were en route to a resort in Taroko National Park when the earthquake struck, have been found safe. The workers had been caught on a highway that cuts through the scenic gorge connecting Hualien to the west coast of Taiwan—a highway now partially blocked by debris.
Drone footage released by emergency services showed some of these workers, along with other stranded individuals, signaling for help beside a damaged minibus. In a separate incident, six people were airlifted to safety from a mining area by helicopter on Thursday morning.
Transportation infrastructure is swiftly being restored, with the railway line to Hualien reopening ahead of schedule. However, one rural station remains closed due to sustained damage. In Hualien city itself, all individuals previously trapped in buildings have been rescued. Still, the fear of aftershocks has driven many residents to seek refuge outside their homes. One resident, Ms. Yu, described her apartment as “a mess” and opted to sleep in a tent at a makeshift shelter, finding the continuous aftershocks too unnerving to allow her to rest indoors.
The community’s spirit remains unbroken as they navigate through the aftermath of this natural disaster, with support services and emergency responders working around the clock to ensure safety and provide aid to those affected.
