400 still trapped under the rubble in Pariaman

Around 400 residents of Pariaman regency are feared trapped under the rubble of buildings following the 7.6-magnitude earthquake that shook West Sumatra on Wednesday.

A joint rescue team has evacuated 19 bodies in the last two days, using traditional tools such as wood cutters and crowbars, Antara news agency reported.

The quake hit Pariaman hardest, burying 60 families in Cumanak area, 50 in Lubuk Laweh and 17 on Koto Island under the debris of their homes, rocks and trees.
 
"For the time being we are using only ordinary and traditional tools. Excavators and other equipment to remove the wreckage will only arrive Saturday,” said Yusuf, a local resident who helps the rescue team.