Tragedy Strikes Nepal: 128 Lives Lost and Counting in Devastating 6.4-Magnitude Earthquake
04-11-2023 : Late on a Friday night, a formidable earthquake with a magnitude of 6.4 struck Nepal, claiming at least 128 lives and injuring numerous individuals. This seismic event, which originated from a shallow depth, has disrupted communication networks in various areas, leaving the final death toll expected to rise as rescue efforts are underway in remote mountain villages.
The earthquake’s epicenter was situated in Jajarkot, to the northeast of Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu, with tremors reverberating as far as New Delhi, and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The U.S. Geological Survey initially reported the quake’s magnitude as 5.6, highlighting its shallow depth of approximately 18 kilometers. Earthquakes originating at shallow depths tend to be more powerful, resulting in more extensive devastation.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and offered India’s full support to Nepal during this challenging time. He stated, “Deeply saddened by the loss of lives and damage due to the earthquake in Nepal. India stands in solidarity with the people of Nepal and is ready to extend all possible assistance. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families, and we wish the injured a quick recovery.”
Reports emerging on Saturday morning indicated that the districts of Jajarkot and West Rukum had borne the brunt of the devastation, with Jajarkot district alone reporting at least 44 fatalities. Hari Prasad Pant, the Chief District Officer of West Rukum, stated, “At least 36 people have been confirmed dead in Rukum West, and the toll is expected to rise further. This is the update we have been able to get till 5 am (local time).” According to the Kathmandu Post, more than 140 people have sustained injuries.
Prime Minister of Nepal, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, expressed his grief over the loss of lives and promptly mobilized security forces for search and relief operations. Numerous houses have collapsed, and search teams are diligently working with local residents to rescue those trapped amidst the rubble. However, landslides triggered by the earthquake have rendered several regions inaccessible, complicating rescue efforts.
Nepal, being a geographically seismic region, has endured its share of natural disasters. In 2015, the nation was struck by a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that claimed the lives of approximately 9,000 people. More recently, on October 22, 2023, another earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1 rattled Kathmandu, but fortunately, no significant damages or casualties were reported.
