The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile expresses its deep solidarity upon learning of the tragic news of a magnitude 7.0 earthquake that struck the Nagchu’s Drachen region of Tibet on the night of 22 October 2026, at approximately 10:33 p.m. Tibet local time, according to reports from various news media. The earthquake caused significant casualties and injuries, widespread destruction due to the collapse of homes, road blockages caused by falling boulders, and severe hardships in accessing food, clothing, and shelter amid the onset of winter cold. His Holiness the Dalai Lama, along with non-sectarian religious heads and monasteries, has offered prayers for those who lost their lives. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the swift recovery of the injured. Furthermore, we call upon all public and private entities to provide the necessary assistance to help displaced families overcome these severe hardships.

The primary underlying cause of these recurring natural disasters in Tibet stems from the Chinese government’s reckless and extensive destruction of the Tibetan Plateau, including rampant deforestation, dam construction, river diversion and blockages, mining operations, and the construction of railways and tunnels without adequate regard for environmental safety. Therefore, we call upon the Chinese government to invite international environmental experts and take full responsibility for protecting and preserving Tibet’s ecology.

Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile

26 October 2026