Dozens injured as major quake strikes Taiwan

A powerful earthquake off Taiwan injured at least 14 people and caused minor damage in the capital as well as near the epicentre, officials said today.

All 14 of the victims currently known of sustained minor injuries in the eastern city of Hualien, 85 miles (135 kilometres) south-east of the capital Taipei.

Thirteen became ill after inhaling chlorine gas that leaked from a hotel, while another was hurt by falling debris caused by yesterday’s quake.

The US Geological Survey said the 6.4-magnitude quake was centred off the eastern coast of Taiwan, about 15 miles (25 kilometres) from Hualien. It struck at a depth of about 30 miles (45 kilometres).

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre did not immediately issue any warning.

Buildings shook in the capital for several seconds after the quake struck.

Taipei’s subways and the island’s high-speed rail service were suspended, local TV reports said.