Quake-hit Ecuador working non-stop to restore basic services

The Ecuadoran government is working around the clock to restore water services in areas affected by Saturday's devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake.

Coastal Manabí province is among the hardest-hit areas, and potable water coverage there is currently around 57%, the government is reporting.

Media outlets on the ground are also reporting that authorities are facing challenges bringing water, medicine and food supplies to some areas.

Electricity services in Manabí's urban zones have been recovered to around 72%, while telecom coverage in around 14 cantons stands at around 71%, according to a release from the presidential office.

And while the appraisals are ongoing, President Rafael Correa has estimated damages from the quake at around US$3bn. Correa announced new emergency tax measures, proceeds from which will go toward reconstruction efforts.

The quake, with its epicenter off the Pacific coast, has caused the death of at least 570 people and injured over 7,000. Around 300km of Manabí roads are damaged and 1,125 buildings are reported to have been destroyed.

The government has set up a webpage providing details of how and where people can donate to help in the relief efforts.