Title: Hundreds Buried and Thousands Left Homeless in Nepal Earthquake Tragedy
In a tragic turn of events, Nepal was hit by a devastating earthquake, leaving hundreds buried under rubble and thousands homeless overnight. With rescuers scrambling to provide aid, their efforts were hindered by the difficult terrain that required them to reach the affected mountainous villages on foot. Moreover, roads were blocked by landslides triggered by the earthquake, compelling soldiers to work tirelessly in clearing the debris.
Deputy Prime Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha emphasized the government’s commitment to delivering aid to the affected areas, as tents, food, and medicine were quickly flown in. The earthquake came without warning, catching many off-guard while they were sound asleep in their homes. Bimal Kumar Karki, one of the survivors rescued from the ruins of his collapsed house, shared his horrifying experience of being buried under debris and screaming for help until rescuers found him.
The urgency to find survivors was paramount, and local television broadcasted footage of troops recovering bodies while others selflessly dug out and assisted the injured. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake had a preliminary magnitude of 5.6 and occurred at a depth of 11 miles (18 kilometers) with its epicenter in Jajarkot, located approximately 400 kilometers (250 miles) northeast of the capital city, Kathmandu.
Reports indicate that the Jajarkot district, mostly an agricultural area, suffered a death toll of at least 105 people, while in the neighboring Rukum district, 52 lives were lost. The number of casualties is expected to rise as communication remains severed in several locations. Security officials worked tirelessly with villagers throughout the night to retrieve the dead and tend to the injured.
The regional hospital in Nepalgunj swiftly mobilized resources, offering over 100 beds and deploying teams of doctors to provide immediate assistance to the injured. Helicopters, along with small government and army planes able to land in short mountain strips, were utilized to transport the wounded to Nepalgunj. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal personally arrived via helicopter, accompanied by a team of doctors. It is noteworthy that Dahal had previously led an armed communist revolt in these very districts affected by the earthquake.
While earthquakes are not unusual in Nepal’s mountainous terrain, the country is still reeling from the memory of a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in 2015 that claimed the lives of approximately 9,000 people and caused extensive damage to around 1 million structures. Neighboring India has extended its support and offered assistance in the ongoing rescue efforts.
As the affected regions continue to grapple with the aftermath of this devastating earthquake, it is crucial for international aid organizations to step forward and provide much-needed support. The global community’s solidarity in times of crisis can help alleviate the suffering of those affected and aid in the process of rebuilding shattered lives and communities. Nepal stands resilient in the face of this tragedy, determined to rebuild and recover from the destructive forces of nature.
