Nepal

Deadly Earthquake Strikes Nepal

On November 3, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck Jajarkot, Nepal. A few days later, another earthquake, this one at a 5.6 magnitude, struck the same area. According to officials, over 150 people were killed, hundreds more people were injured, and nearly 60,000 houses were completely or partially destroyed. More than 300,000 people, including children, have been affected by the earthquake and following aftershocks. The growing cold has also worsened conditions, particularly among the most vulnerable groups such as children, expecting mothers, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases.

“Many houses have collapsed, many others have developed cracks. Thousands of residents spent the entire night in cold, open grounds because they were too scared to go in into cracked houses as aftershocks struck.” – Harish Chandra Sharma, Jajarkot district official

On November 8, Islamic Relief launched an emergency response to provide immediate relief to those in need. We’re working with local partners to provide food aid and distribute winter aid kits including blankets, mattresses, winter clothing, and emergency tents to families across the affected area.  

Focus on Nepal

After 10 years of ongoing conflict, Nepal is in the midst of transitioning to a democratic government. In the last few years alone, Nepal has achieved significant progress towards social and economic growth. That being said, major challenges still remain today as the country faces food insecurity, stagnant economic growth, and high vulnerability to natural disasters and natural resource degradation exacerbated by climate change.

Islamic Relief’s Dedication to Nepal

Islamic Relief has served in Nepal since 2015, and continues to provide humanitarian and development assistance across the country today.

A few of our interventions include:

• Food aid
• Access to clean and safe water
• Orphan family support
• Sustainable livelihood support
• Emergency aid for natural disasters including earthquakes