Hundreds die in Balochistan earthquake
Updated at: 2314 PST, Wednesday, October 29, 2008
QUETTA: The death toll in Wednesday’s strong earthquake in Balochistan has mounted to over 200 while a large number of people are still trapped under the debris of collapsed houses and other structures.

Ziarat was the most affected district where maximum deaths occurred due to the deadly quake.

The rescue and relief operation is being carried out with full strength while succor is being airlifted and transported through road from Karachi and Islamabad to the quake-stricken areas.

Twelve helicopters and one C-130 of Pak Army are taking part in the relief operation.

Pak Army has also set up a tent village consisting of 2000 tents where eatables are being provided to the affectees.

The 6.5 magnitude tremor struck villages and small towns 45 miles north of Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, around, 4:33 a.m.

Strong aftershocks were also felt at about 5 PM in Quetta, Sibi, Noshki and adjoining areas.

The Sindh Health Minister has declared a red alert in Karachi’s hospitals in case the injured patients are shifted to the city.