24 killed, several injured as quake plays havoc in Murree

MURREE—Enormous loss to life and property has been caused amid the reports that at least 24 people have been killed, several injured and scores of houses have collapsed after jolts of high intensity quake hit Murree and its surrounding areas in the early hours of Saturday.
Talking to a private T.V channel Saturday, newly elected Nazim of Murree, Sardar Saleem told that as per initial reports six people were killed and dozens were severely injured when they were overtaken by the jolts of horrendous earthquake. About three to four hundred houses were also destroyed, he added. He underlined that massive devastation has been caused in the area and the government machinery is facing difficulties to launch rescue operations in the quake-wrecked areas. Certain localities are there where access has not been secured so far. Death toll is likely to go up , he feared. The quake has claimed about 18 lives in tourists’ spots including Nathia Galli, Molia Bakot and other areas. The victims include some school going children. The reports reaching here disclosed that the local have initiated rescue operation on self help basis and no government functionary has reached there to extend assistance.—Agencies