At least 134 people have been confirmed dead and countless others injured following a devastating earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale, which struck Tibet’s holy city of Shigatse on January 7, 2025. According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake hit at approximately 09:00 local time (01:00 GMT) and had a depth of around 10 kilometers (6 miles). This earthquake, one of the deadliest to impact China in recent years, precipitated widespread destruction and multiple aftershocks, felt as far away as Nepal and parts of India.
Shigatse holds deep cultural and religious significance, being the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, whose authority ranks second only to the Dalai Lama within Tibetan Buddhist hierarchies. The region is historically tied to the struggle of Tibetans against Chinese governance, particularly following the 1959 uprising, and many residents harbor fears of Beijing’s influence over the future of Tibetan leadership, especially following the fate of the Panchen Lama, who was controversially appointed by the Chinese government.
Chinese state broadcaster CCTV released harrowing footage showing flattened homes and debris-strewn streets, with rescue workers distributing blankets to residents enduring sub-zero temperatures. Tingri County, close to the quake's epicenter and often frequented by climbers on route to Mount Everest, registered daytime temperatures around -8°C (17.6°F) and forecasts indicated drops to -18°C overnight. The earthquake left power and water supplies severely disrupted, stranding many locals.
The destruction resulted in significant infrastructural damage, with estimates citing over 1,000 homes impacted. Consequently, tourist activities, including Everest sightseeing tours, saw cancellations, as local officials prioritized visitor safety by evacuations. One resident described the chaos, stating, "I grabbed my socks and rushed onto the street, where helicopters were already circling above." The urgency of the situation prompted China’s air force to deploy rescue teams and drones to the affected regions, as President Xi Jinping called for an "all-out" rescue operation aimed at minimizing casualties and resettling those displaced.
The aftermath of the quake also stirred anxiety beyond Tibet, as tremors reverberated through neighboring Nepal, causing some to abandon their homes temporarily. Thankfully, initial reports indicated no major damage or casualties within Nepal, with officials noting only minor structural cracks. Many Nepalis recalled the traumatic memories of the devastating quake of 2015, which left nearly 9,000 dead. Shop owner Manju Neupane shared her fears: “Today was not as scary, but I’m still afraid another major earthquake could trap us between the tall buildings.”
Meanwhile, the Tibetan New Year festival, or Losar, which typically attracts international attention to the Tibetan culture, is expected to be celebrated quietly this year. The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) has made an unprecedented appeal to the Tibetan diaspora, urging them to refrain from cultural events during the festivities scheduled from February 28 to March 2, 2025. They emphasized the importance of solidarity with earthquake victims as more details surrounding the disaster continue to emerge.
To honor those who lost their lives, the CTA requested Tibetans to observe a 49-day mourning period by suspending traditional practices, including the Lhakar dance, which is usually celebrated through cultural dances and social gatherings. This decision aligns with Tibetan Buddhist customs, reflecting the communal grief and support offered to families who have tragically lost loved ones. An official statement from the CTA underscored the significance of this mourning period, calling for respect and reflection.
Reports indicate the death toll may exceed the previously estimated numbers suggested by official channels, highlighting the gravity of the situation. With many areas still reeling from the impact, recovery efforts are challenged by harsh winter conditions. Rescuers continue to face obstacles as they navigate wreckage, searching for survivors and providing necessary aid.
The Losar celebrations, typically filled with joy and cultural expression, will inevitably bear the weight of this tragedy. The CTA’s appeal serves as both a demonstration of unity and recognition of the suffering inflicted on their homeland. It fosters an environment of resilience among the Tibetan community, irrespective of location.
With the continued threat of aftershocks and the imperative need for shelter and sustenance, efforts are underway to provide aid and support for those left homeless. The scale of the disaster's impact remains to be fully assessed, as many families await news of loved ones and the potential for more extensive recovery solutions.
February 2025 will be remembered as both a time of hardship and resilience for Tibet, its people rallying together in the face of adversity. The international community is closely monitoring developments, aware of the long road to recovery awaiting those affected by this devastating event.