Several thousand people are feared dead after a powerful earthquake struck parts of India, Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The earthquake, measuring at least 7.6 on the Richter scale, was centred in the disputed territory of Kashmir, and is believed to have been the most devastating tremor to hit the region in 100 years. More than 1,800 people have been confirmed dead so far.
The quake struck close to the dividing line between the Indian and Pakistani controlled zones of the disputed Himalayan region, triggering deadly landslides that wiped out whole villages.
The first earthquake was followed by 18 aftershocks of magnitudes of between 4.6 and 6.3 over the next 10 hours.
Pakistani officials have described scenes of 'massive devastation' and warned of heavy loss of life, especially in the mountains of Kashmir where communications were cut off.
Pakistan's chief military spokesman, Major General Sharkat Sultan, has warned that the number of dead is likely to rise and that all available resources are being mobilised to help with the rescue operation.
Rescuers are trying to reach hundreds of residents feared trapped in collapsed buildings in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad.
Up to 100 people are believed to be trapped beneath the rubble of the Margala Towers blocks, home to expatriate workers and middle-class Pakistanis. An official overseeing the rescue said 82 survivors had been found, as well as 11 bodies.
Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, has offered to help Pakistan with rescue and relief operations.
Mr Singh expressed his condolences to the families of those killed in Pakistan.
The divided territory of Kashmir is claimed in full by both India and Pakistan. Thousands of troops face off on each side of the Line of Control and the two countries have fought two wars over the territory.
European countries make offers of aid
European countries have offered aid to the stricken regions. The European Commission said up to €3m could be approved within a day if requested by agencies working on the ground.
While a spokeswoman for the United Nations said a team of experts was en route to Islamabad to help co-ordinate relief efforts. UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, has extended his sincere condolences to all the victims and their families.
The Irish Government has made an initial pledge of up to €1m to assist with immediate relief efforts in the aftermath of the earthquake.
US President, George W Bush, said his thoughts and prayers were with those affected by the 'horrible tragedy' in south Asia.
