In the early hours of November 3rd, 2023, a magnitude 6.4 earthquake shook the remote parts of western Nepal- Jajarkot and Rukum West. The initial earthquake, in addition to the aftershocks, has claimed 153 lives and injured more than 338 people.
An estimated 250,000 people were affected, 80,000 of which are children. It was unfortunate the earthquake happened during the night when residents were asleep, contributing to the high number of casualties.
The geographical location of Nepal situated in the Himalayan region, is susceptible to frequent seismic activity. The last major earthquake took place in 2015. It measured 7.8 in magnitude and killed 9000 people.
This latest earthquake damaged many homes, schools, health centers, and important infrastructures.
Reports from the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) state approximately 62,000 homes were affected (35,455 partially damaged, 26,557 completely damaged) by the earthquake.
As the affected area has a high level of poverty, residents are left without the basic necessities. Families are in desperate need of medical support, shelter, safe drinking water, food, blankets, hygiene kits, and warm clothes as the winter sets in.
Those living in temporary shelters, which are not winterized, are suffering due to the cold. Survivors of the earthquake are experiencing winter/cold-related health issues, especially the young and the elderly.
It is reported that at least 38 survivors have died after enduring freezing temperatures within their temporary shelters. One of the dead was a woman who gave birth two days after the initial earthquake on November 3rd.
The seriousness of the survivors’ needs prompted Life for Relief and Development to provide emergency relief in the form of jackets and shawls.
LIFE is happy to report that 1359 individuals from Kapilvastu were reached by the relief distribution efforts, which took place on December 3rd, 2023.
The recipients were grateful not only for their physical needs being met but also for restoring a sense of dignity and resilience.
Rajesh, one of the survivors shared, “Every day, we wake up surrounded by the echoes of the earthquake. But the relief distribution was like a sunrise, bringing warmth and promise. We are grateful for the support, and it’s not just about surviving, it’s about rebuilding and looking forward to a better future”.
He continued, “It was more than aid; it was a lifeline that reminded us we are not alone”.
