Tibetans in Dharamshala Hold Candlelight Vigil for Earthquake Victims in Tibet
Tibetans in Dharamshala Hold Candlelight Vigil for Earthquake Victims in Tibet
On January 9, hundreds of Tibetans living in exile gathered in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India, to hold a candlelight vigil. This event was organized to show support for the victims of a devastating earthquake that hit Tibet on January 7.
Organizers and Participants
The vigil was organized by four major Tibetan NGOs: the Tibetan Youth Congress, Tibetan Women's Association, Students for Free Tibet, and the National Democratic Party of Tibet. Participants carried placards with messages like "Provide Immediate Aid and Support Victims" and "Pray for Dingri."
Impact of the Earthquake
The earthquake, which struck Dingli County in Togo Township, Tibet, had a magnitude of 7.1 according to the United States Geological Survey, while the China Earthquake Networks Center recorded it at 6.8. It resulted in at least 126 deaths, over 100 injuries, and the destruction of more than 1,000 homes. Tremors were felt in Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of northern India.
Voices from the Vigil
Tenzin Marico, an exiled Tibetan, expressed sorrow over the disaster, stating, "It's such a sad thing that happened yesterday in Tibet." Tenzin Lekdhen, a Tibetan activist from Students for Free Tibet, highlighted the environmental concerns, accusing China of building mega-development projects that could contribute to such disasters.
Environmental Concerns
Activists at the vigil voiced concerns about China's development projects, particularly dams on the Diru and Dichu rivers, which they believe could impact the region's fragile ecosystem and contribute to earthquakes.
Doubts Revealed
Tibetans in exile
Tibetans in exile are people from Tibet who have left their home country and are living in another country, like India, because of political or other reasons.
Dharamshala
Dharamshala is a town in India, located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for being the home of the Dalai Lama and many Tibetans who have moved there.
Candlelight vigil
A candlelight vigil is a gathering of people who hold candles to show support or remember someone or something important. It is often done in a peaceful and respectful way.
NGOs
NGOs are Non-Governmental Organizations. They are groups that work independently from the government to help people or support causes, like helping earthquake victims.
Magnitude 7.1
Magnitude 7.1 refers to the strength of the earthquake. It is measured on a scale called the Richter scale, where higher numbers mean a stronger earthquake.
China's development projects
China's development projects are large construction or industrial activities that China undertakes to improve its economy. Sometimes, these projects can affect the environment or local communities.
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