Nepal Earthquake Response

SITUATION REPORT: November 3, 2023

Nepal has recently faced a series of seismic events, with the latest being a significant earthquake measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale that struck Jajarkot, West Rukum, and nearby districts in the Karnali province of Western Nepal on November 3rd at 23:48 local time. The aftermath of this earthquake, coupled with subsequent major aftershocks, has caused considerable devastation. Lives lost have surpassed 150, including the Deputy Mayor of Nalagad Rural Municipality and around 30 children. The number of injured individuals has exceeded 200, with these figures anticipated to rise. The seismic activity was powerful enough to create tremors felt as far as the capital city of Kathmandu and neighboring regions in India, notably Delhi. The fear of further tremors and structural damage forced a significant number of people to spend the night outdoors. The impact of the earthquake resulted in the collapse of multiple-story brick houses, necessitating survivors to tirelessly extract those trapped under the rubble. 

In response, local authorities, including security forces, were mobilized for rescue efforts. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal expressed deep sorrow for the loss of life and property, directing security agencies to initiate immediate rescue and relief operations. Despite these efforts, search and rescue missions faced challenges due to landslides triggered by the earthquake, resulting in road blockages in the affected areas. The local government, police, and army remain actively engaged in ongoing rescue operations to extricate individuals trapped in debris. 

International support has been forthcoming in response to the crisis. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended solidarity and assistance, while China’s ambassador to Nepal pledged to provide relief materials. UNICEF has been actively assessing the impact of the disaster on children and families. 

IMMEDIATE NEEDS

In the immediate aftermath, urgent needs revolve around shelter, medical care, and essential supplies for those impacted. The victims, particularly those who have lost their homes, are facing severe challenges exacerbated by adverse weather conditions. Many are left without shelter and uncertain about their temporary housing arrangements, thereby necessitating immediate provisions such as tents. 

Ongoing rescue operations continue to prioritize the extraction of people trapped in debris and rubble, alongside providing crucial medical treatment for the injured. Relief efforts are actively focusing on meeting the immediate and critical requirements of the affected population. This includes the provision of essential items such as food, shelter, and medical care. The aim is to ensure the well-being of both children and families amidst the aftermath of this calamity.  

CURRENT PROGRAMS & PARTNERS

Give2Asia will continue to develop partnerships with organizations supporting relief and recovery. During this emergency response phase, Give2Asia is supporting the work of our partners with a range of program priorities, from providing urgent basic needs such as food, clean water, and health services to ensuring access to education for children and economic rehabilitation services. Give2Asia is proud to work with partners in the pre-positioned DisasterLink Network listed below: 

Group For Technical Assistance (GTA)

The Group for Technical Assistance (GTA) provides technical assistance to development actors in Nepal to increase efficiency and effectiveness. GTA responded immediately to the devastating earthquake that struck Karnali Province on November 3, 2023. After rapid communication with local partners and the municipality, the most affected municipalities, i.e., Nadgad Municipality (Wards 1, 3, and 5) and Aathbiskot Municipality (Wards 11 and 12), have 2,000 households, mostly affected. As it’s the winter season and three months after the disaster, GTA would like to provide relief materials to the neediest 1,000 families in school and community-level preparedness activities.

The relief materials include warm blankets, food, WASH, and hygiene kits required to save from cold, hunger, and hygiene and sanitation-related diseases.

Additionally, for the preparedness activities, the disaster management committee and community help groups need training related to disaster response, recovery, and preparedness. Also, school students need to be counseled and engaged in disaster awareness activities and preparedness at school. It is important to have earthquake drills and IEC materials to raise awareness among students and the community people, as well as training for the teachers.

Nyaya Health Nepal

Nyaya Health Nepal (NHN) focus on improving healthcare for underserved communities in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP), provincial, and municipal governments of Nepal since 2008. NHN was able to respond immediately to the devastating earthquake that struck Karnali Province on November 3, 2023.

In times of crisis, the NHN team has consistently demonstrated resilience and determination in delivering essential healthcare services to those in need. Our dedicated team on the ground showcased their commitment to the well-being of the community in Jajarkot. This response demonstrates NHN’s core mission and dedication in improving healthcare services.

Human Development Centre (HDC) Nepal

The Human Development Centre (HDC) Nepal is a non-political, non-profit organization that was established on April 5, 2005, in Jhapa, Nepal. HDC primarily works in Jhapa, but also in some neighboring districts. HDC started working to provide vocational training and skill development programs. HDC Nepal onwards will be focusing to work in disaster preparedness and response to save lives, natural resources and conservation the environment in Nepal.  

Sano Paila (A Little Step)

Sano Paila (A Little Step) is dedicated to empowering communities in Nepal through sustainable community development, rehabilitation and livelihood enhancement, peace-building, health improvement, and educational programs. To achieve their mission, they integrate disenfranchised communities into the life of the nation and empower them to contribute fully to the sustainable development of Nepal.

HOW TO GIVE

All donations received by Give2Asia will help affected communities in Nepal. Give2Asia will publish more details on the needs emerging in the coming days and weeks—and report on every dollar granted for relief and recovery. 

Click the “Donate” button above to make a credit card donation. For large gifts or corporate giving opportunities, please get in touch with our international giving team. 

Group For Technical Assistance (GTA), Nyaya Health Nepal, Human Development Centre (HDC) Nepal, and Sano Paila (A Little Step) are part of Give2Asia’s prepositioned DisasterLink network. See here for further information.