Quake death toll surges to 1,297 in Haiti as rescue efforts continue 

A day after thepowerful7.2-magnitudeearthquake ravaged Haiti, thedeath tollsoared to1,297 on Sunday.The quake had razedthousands of structures in the country.

Therescue efforts are now being undertaken by the personnel in the country.Atropical storm is also heading towardsHaiti to make matters worse.

At least 5,700 people have also got injured in the Caribbean nation.Thousands more have beendisplaced due to the destruction. Several homes have either beendestroyed or damaged.

In numerousareas,survivors have been forced to liveout in the open.On Sunday, people could also be seenlining up to buy whatever little was available at a local street market.

Thecoming of Tropical Depression Grace, which mayreach Haiti on Monday night, has left several residents worried.Thetropical storm was although demotedto a depression onSunday bythe US National Hurricane Centre.It maybring heavy rain, flooding and landslides.

Theearthquake struck at a crucial time when thecountry wasalready grappling with the coronavirus pandemic, a presidential assassination and a wave of gang violence.

On Sunday,Pope Francis expressed his closeness to the people of Haiti. He also prayed for the victims and wished encouragement for survivors. In order tohelp the people of Haitiin these difficult times,the pope called for the solidarity of the international community.

US President Joe Bidenauthorisedan immediate response and named USAID Administrator Samantha Power to oversee the US effort to help Haiti.

(With inputs from agencies)