Aid shortages and fears of starvation as Indonesia reels from deadly earthquake
A 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Indonesia has left at least 68 people dead and thousands displaced, with survivors facing severe shortages of medical aid and infrastructure. Remote villages are struggling as landslides and damaged roads hinder rescue efforts.
Why it matters
The disaster highlights the vulnerability of remote regions to natural catastrophes and the critical need for rapid humanitarian response.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, At least 53 people have been killed and some 5,000 displaced by the initial quake, which struck at a depth of just 15km
There are hundreds of disaster victims in Dampek village - but only one doctor.
When a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck the Indonesian island of Flores on Saturday, this area was among the worst-hit. Health facilities were toppled, electricity networks cut, and after two days aftershocks still rattled the makeshift shelters while inside, medical supplies rapidly diminished.
"I am the only doctor here with hundreds of victims. I truly cannot cope," read an urgent appeal from Dr Melinda, the sole physician at the now-decimated Dampek Health Centre, on Sunday.
"I have not had any rest since yesterday because casualties keep arriving around the clock."
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