Earthquakes occur from time to time in various parts of the world. An earthquake, like a flood or a famine, is a natural calamity. Men are helpless when such things happen.
We often read in the newspapers that an earthquake has occurred in a certain place. We come to know that many people have lost their lives.
There are earth tremors during an earthquake. Sometimes these tremors are mild and not alarming in nature. Sometimes the tremors are very severe. People feel the ground rocking under their feet.
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On the Republic Day in 2001 there was a severe earthquake at Kutch in Gujarat. It caused much destruction to life and property.
During an earthquake, people lose their houses and even their lives. Some are trapped in houses that collapse on account of earth tremors.
Image Source: seismopredictions.com
The Gujarat earthquake took a heavy toll of human life. Many died because they were asleep, being a holiday; enjoying a long sleep when the earthquake occurred. During an earthquake those who are awake run out in the open and save their lives.
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Sometimes even roads are broken up by earthquakes. One part of the road might suddenly sink because of earthquake.
Earthquake victims, like flood victims have to start life all over again. Government tries to help them to some extent.
Newspapers and other social service organisations have extensive drives to collect funds for earthquake victims. They meet with a generous response from the public. It is our duty to help our destitute countrymen in their distress.