A moderate earthquake has struck northern Pakistan, killing at least 10 people and injuring at least 30 others.
Officials say that the deaths and injuries occurred in four villages - Muthat, Tato Pani, Rai Kot and Jal - in the Diamir district, about 200 kilometers north of the Pakistani capital. The earthquake damaged parts of the strategic Karakoram Highway that links Pakistan and China.
Authorities said the remoteness of the mountainous region is making it difficult to assess the full extent of the damage. Pakistani Information Minister Nisar Memon gave preliminary details at a news conference. "A lot of damage appears to have taken place. And about 1,500 people have been affected, which means about 500 families are affected. We have already put in place the teams of Pakistan army, and they are working to provide the relief right now," he said.
Mr. Memon said the health department has sent several medical teams to treat the injured, many of whom are said to be in critical condition. He said emergency personnel have also reached the area, and are trying to provide shelter for those whose homes have been destroyed.
Pakistani officials and residents said the mountainous region has suffered moderate earthquakes and aftershocks in the past two days.