Massive earthquake strikes northeast India; 6 killed, over 20 injured

At least six people were killed and more than 20 others injured in Manipur in a high-intensity earthquake that hit the northeast early this morning.

The Seismological department said that the quake measured 6.8 on the Richter scale and lasted for about two minutes. The quake took place at 4.35 am at a depth of 17 km below the ground with its epicentre at Tamenglong district of Manipur.

#Earthquake UPDATE: Death toll rises to 6 in #Manipur.

- ANI (@ANI_news) January 4, 2016

Manipur CM Okram Ibobi Singh & I had a telephone conversation. We discussed post-earthquake situation in Manipur & Northeast: PM Modi

- ANI (@ANI_news) January 4, 2016

A girl was killed in a building collapse at Tamenglong district, while another person died at Taobungkhok village in Imphal West district, police said.

Four persons were seriously injured in Tamenglong district while other casualties were reported from places like Imphal East and West district.

Many buildings collapsed in Tamenglong while several others in Imphal, including the market complex, developed cracks, sources said.

Electricity connection was cut off in the state soon after the quake and was yet to be restored.

(With inputs from PTI)