World Vows Quake Aid

30/03/2005| IslamWeb

Countries around the world offered condolences and relief after a huge earthquake hit this northwest Indonesian island.

Rescuers said yesterday that more than 1,000 people were feared dead in the quake that struck on Monday triggering tsunami warnings which caused panic across the Indian Ocean.

"About a third of Gunung Sitoli, the main town in Nias, is reported to have undergone the heaviest damage. It is estimated that more than 1,000 people in Nias island died," the Indonesian Red Cross said in a statement.

Some 20,000 people in Gunung Sitoli were without water, the electricity grid was also out of order and roads were badly damaged, the team said.

Indonesian officials said at least 430 people had been confirmed dead on Nias and neigbouring Simeulue island off northwest Sumatra.

US President George W Bush offered help and condolences yesterday to the victims.

India announced an assistance 2 million US dollar to Indonesia. Singapore sent military helicopters and a team of medical and rescue workers. Japan offered to send relief goods, paramedics and troops. China's promised 500,000. Australia pledged 800,000 US dollar aid.

The European Union and Germany said they would offer financial aid if needed. Italy sent its condolences.

South Africa offered emergency relief to Indonesia "within the limited resources at its disposal."

Mauritius and Madagascar yesterday cancelled tsunami alerts issued late on Monday.

PHOTO CAPTION

Indonesian troops evacuate an injured villager from Nias island. (AFP)