By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
Thousands of people displaced by a powerful earthquake in eastern Indonesia are spending nights in schools, police stations and government buildings as they await aid.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Flores Island early Saturday, killing 54 people and injuring more than 100 others.
Indonesia’s national disaster agency said the number of people unable to return home had risen to about 12,800 by Monday.
Many residents are staying outdoors for a third night because more than 1,600 aftershocks have hit the area.
Residents near the epicentre said several homes had collapsed or developed dangerous cracks, forcing families to seek shelter in makeshift tents.
One resident, Junaidin, said some communities were still waiting for basic supplies, including food, drinking water, medicine and tents.
The Indonesian Air Force said it was sending 13 tonnes of emergency supplies using two Hercules aircraft and a Boeing.
Helicopters will also deliver aid directly to survivors in isolated communities.
Authorities said there were no reports of missing people as rescue and relief operations continued.
