It is now feared more than 2,000 people died and 5,500 are missing after the worst earthquake to
hit India in 50 years.
The quake, which rocked the western state of Gujarat, cast a tragic shadow over India's 51st Republic Day celebrations as hundreds of buildings crumbled.
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Thousands feared dead
in Indian earthquake |
The quake - measured at 7.9 on the Richter scale by the US Geological Survey - was the region's most intense in half a century, the Indian Meteorological Department said.
The Press Trust of India (PTI), quoting officials, has put the number of dead at 2,000 and rising.
Many families were spending the holiday at home when the quake struck, bringing down older buildings in the western state of Gujarat and sending out tremors that could be felt around the country and beyond.
At least eight people were killed and many injured in the southern Pakistani province of Sindh by the earthquake.
A meteorological official in Karachi, the Sindh capital, said the earthquake measured 6.2 on the Richter scale and was also felt in several other Pakistani cities.
UNICEF Ireland has launched an emergency appeal for the victims of the disaster.
UNICEF's emergency relief is ready on the ground to bring water tanks, medical supplies, drugs and shelter to the victims.
"We need the urgent help of the Irish public", said Ms Maura Quinn, Executive Director, UNICEF Ireland. "The next few days will be crucial."
Donations can be made to the UNICEF Ireland Emergency Appeal by calling Tel: (01) 878-3000 or online at www.unicef.ie.
Alternately cheques can be sent to: UNICEF Ireland, Indian Emergency Appeal 28 Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1.