Chinese state media said at least 126 people had died in the magnitude 7.1 quake near an area of religious significance in Tibet. It was felt in neighboring Nepal.

HONG KONG — A 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck near one of Tibet ’s holiest cities Tuesday, killing at least 126 people, Chinese state media reported. The earthquake, which was recorded just after 9 a.m. (8 p.m. ET Monday), was centered at a depth of nearly 6 miles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

A major earthquake hit a secluded region of Tibet on the morning of January 7, resulting in considerable destruction. Authorities in China reported that the earthquake struck the northern foothills of the Himalayas,

Penpa Tsering, who attended the special prayer service in solidarity with the earthquake victims, said that the Chinese government should be mindful about the impacts of the mega projects in Tibet, particularly the one they announced last month;