The death toll from the earthquake in Ecuador has risen to 233, President Rafael Correa has confirmed.<br /><br /> Initial tallies given by the government suggested around 600 people were injured. However, the number was expected to rise.<br /><br /> The magnitude 7.8 ‘quake was felt around the nation when it struck off the Pacific Coast late on Saturday.<br /><br /> Ecuador’s biggest earthquake in decades has ravaged coastal populations leaving an unknown number of people trapped in the rubble.<br /><br /> Panic spread though the Andean nation, which is home to a population of some 16 million people. Tremors were felt in the highland capital, while buildings collapsed and roads were ruined across several western towns.<br /><br /> In the hours after the ‘quake hit, six provinces declared a state of emergency.<br /><br /> Rescue operations are ongoing.
