New Delhi, August 18, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India on Tuesday expressed deep condolences over the loss of lives in the powerful earthquake that struck Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara province, assuring the country of all possible assistance for rescue and relief operations.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India stood in solidarity with Indonesia following the disaster, which has claimed dozens of lives and left thousands displaced.
“Indonesia has been hit by a major earthquake in which a large number of people have been killed and many others injured. Many more people have been rendered homeless. We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and convey our condolences for the precious lives lost. We also pray for the speedy recovery of those who have been injured and for the safety of those involved in rescue and relief efforts,” Jaiswal said during a bi-weekly media briefing in New Delhi.
“In this difficult hour, India stands in solidarity with Indonesia, and we remain committed to extending all possible assistance in support of relief and rescue efforts in the country,” he added.
According to Indonesian authorities, the death toll from the magnitude-7.7 earthquake that struck on August 15 had risen to 70, while 132 people were injured. Of those injured, 40 were reported to be in serious condition and 92 had suffered minor injuries.
The earthquake was centred near Mbay in Nagekeo regency. With no fresh reports of missing people, search and rescue teams have shifted towards area sweeping and supporting recovery operations led by Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency.
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency recorded 2,357 aftershocks in the Flores region by 3 p.m. Tuesday. The strongest measured 6.2 magnitude, while 24 aftershocks were above magnitude 5 and 72 were felt by residents.
The National Search and Rescue Agency has deployed helicopters to isolated areas to transport medical personnel and evacuate people requiring treatment. More than 5,000 residents remain displaced in evacuation centres across the province.
FOLLOW NOW
