19 killed, over 300 injured in Pak quake

A strong earthquake measuring 5.8 on the Richter scale jolted Pakistan on Tuesday, killing at least 19 people and injuring over 300, officials said.

The quake was so strong that it could be felt even in the northern parts of India, including capital New Delhi.

The tremors lasted 8-10 seconds, but were felt strongly across Pakistan, including major cities of Islamabad, Peshawar, Rawalpindi and Lahore, Dawn News reported.

According to United States Geological Survey , the quake struck after 4 p.m. (Pakistan time), which sent the people racing out of buildings and offices in cities across the country.

A report mentioned that the epicentre of the earthquake was in Mirpur, near PoK-Punjab province border. The quake's intensity was felt maximum in Mirpur (PoK), an official said, adding 19 people, including three children, have been killed in the area.

Mirpur Divisional Commissioner Chaudhry Muhammad Tayyab said of the over 300 injured, the condition of 35 is critical.IANS