An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.9 struck in the early hours of Thursday while people were sleeping. Rescue workers said the dead were mostly women and children.
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake was shallow at 20 kms (12 miles) with an epicentre 102 km (62 miles) east of Quetta. The Harnai district was hit the hardest, but the tremors were felt in Quetta, Sibi, Mastung, Shahrag and other adjoining areas as well.
More than 20 people have been reported dead with women and children making up a large number of deceased. The earthquake has been devastating, causing havoc and casualties at 3 am Thursday morning.
