Bhutanese are safe of New Zealand earthquake

September 05, 2010: Bhutanese in New Zealand have not been affected by the devastating 7.1 magnitude earthquake tremor that ruined the Christchurch city of the country on Saturday morning.

According to information given by our reporter Doma Kafle, Bhutanese live about 30 km away from the earthquake epicenter. She said, Chimney of a family was slightly damaged but has been restored today with government assistance.

A local Bhutanese living in Christchurch told Apfanews that Bhutanese are living in fear of aftershocks since this is the first time they faced such calamities.

There are around 300 Bhutanese in 55 families living in Christchurch.

Officials have been evaluating the damage caused by the earthquake and its many aftershocks.

Prime Minister John Key said at least 90 buildings suffered significant damage and many of them would probably have to be knocked down. A storm heading towards the city could cause further damage

The government has withdrawn curfew imposed after the earthquake to begin humanitarian services. However, centre of the city remains cordoned off. Emergency has been declared. No casualties have been reported.

The earthquake struck New Zealand’s South Island in the early hours of Saturday morning, when most people were asleep. Power has been restored but city has no running water.

The country experiences more than 14,000 earthquakes a year, of which only around 20 have a magnitude in excess of 5.0, BBC reported.