On Saturday morning April 25 an earthquake of 7.8 magnitude on the Richter Scale struck Nepal, with its epicentre near Pokhara. The capital, Kathmandu, as well as rural areas were greatly affected, and continue to be affected due to a series of aftershocks.
The casualty figures are continuing to increase each day. The United Nations currently estimates that 4,352 people have died in Nepal, and around 8,000 more are injured, with millions affected in some way – loss of homes, relatives, friends, livelihoods, sustenance, and their spiritual temples. Nepal has a population of 27.8 million (2013 figures). India has reported 72 deaths, and China has reported 25 deaths as a result of the initial Nepal earthquake. Estimates of the extent of casualties are not yet known.
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I have worked in Nepal since 2002 intermittently, travelling extensively to the regions. I have been in touch with a local surgeon, Mr. R. Basnet, of the government hospital in Kathmandu. The 120-year-old building has collapsed. Basnet said, “I was working in the hospital at the time of the earthquake and I could luckily escape to witness the hospital crumble behind me.” He has now been posted to the National Trauma Centre, which receives incoming casualties. He has been home once in three days to check on his family. His wife and child are safe although his home was damaged and his family is currently living in makeshift tents. He remains living in the hospital to operate on patients in available rooms, as the operating theatres are damaged.
Currently there are still people unaccounted for. The government is flying helicopters to remote regions, with support in urban and rural areas from the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and a range of resident aid organizations. Countries from around the region, and the world, have commenced sending aid, medical supplies, and emergency funding, as well as search-and-rescue crews. Specialized high-altitude Special Forces teams have also been sent in country.
Many aid organizations have been in Nepal long-term, assisting with a range of support over the years. Organizations seeking support are listed here – giving to Nepal Earthquake support.
