Vanuatu Earthquake: International Rescuers Mobilize Amid Rising Death Toll and Destruction

International rescuers have mobilized to Vanuatu, where a powerful earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale has resulted in the loss of at least nine lives and extensive destruction across the island nation. As the search for survivors intensifies amidst the rubble of collapsed buildings, teams from Australia and New Zealand are leading efforts to locate those trapped and provide essential aid. On Thursday, military transport planes began landing in the capital, Port Vila, carrying over 100 personnel, specialized rescue equipment, trained dogs, and vital supplies. The efforts come in the wake of the quake that struck on Tuesday, causing severe structural damage to numerous buildings, including the main hospital, and impacting vital infrastructure such as bridges, power lines, and water supply systems. The nation, home to a population of 320,000, has declared a seven-day state of emergency due to the disaster, alongside a curfew from 6 PM to 6 AM to ensure public safety. Rescue operations have been hampered by a series of aftershocks, but teams are working tirelessly to reach those still trapped underneath the debris. Glen Craig of the Vanuatu Business Resilience Council emphasized the urgent need for continued search efforts, noting that several individuals have already been rescued, albeit with a rising death toll. "We know people are trapped and some have been rescued, and there have also been fatalities," Craig stated, reflecting on the personal loss of a friend in the disaster. Australia has dispatched a 64-member disaster response team, which includes medical professionals and emergency managers, while New Zealand has sent a contingent of 37 search-and-rescue specialists. Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that assistance is now on the ground, and efforts are also being made to repatriate Australians affected by the quake. The Vanuatu disaster management office has reported that the confirmed death toll may increase as rescue operations continue. Among the deceased are two Chinese nationals and one French citizen, as confirmed by their respective embassies. The damage assessments indicate that numerous buildings, including more than ten structures requiring immediate attention, have been significantly affected, creating an urgent need for humanitarian assistance. As the nation grapples with the devastating impact of the earthquake, there are growing concerns about potential economic repercussions. Craig pointed out that Vanuatu's economy is heavily reliant on tourism and agriculture, urging the quick restoration of the tourism industry to prevent an economic disaster compounding the effects of the natural calamity. "The runway is in great condition, and it has been a huge focus for the government to get that terminal open," he asserted, highlighting the necessity of reopening commercial flights for both tourists and residents. In the wake of the disaster, many resorts are utilizing generators to maintain operations, with hopes that tourists will return soon. Local medical professionals have reported a range of injuries stemming from the quake, primarily on the main island, and are coordinating additional medical support from neighboring countries to assist weary teams on the ground. As Vanuatu faces the challenges of recovery and rebuilding, the spirit of cooperation and resilience is palpable, with international support playing a critical role in the ongoing search for survivors and the stabilization of the affected communities.