Nepal Earthquake Response |
A shallow earthquake measuring 7.9 centred 80km north of the capital Kathmandu on April 25 created widespread damage, prompting a global humanitarian response. As of April 29, at least 5000 people were confirmed killed. In addition to bringing down buildings and disrupting infrastructure, the earthquake caused landslides in rural areas and avalanches in mountainous regions.
An earthquake measuring 7.9 centred 80km north of the capital Kathmandu on April 25 created widespread damage, prompting a global humanitarian response. As of 12 May, at least 8,000 people were confirmed killed. In addition to bringing down buildings and disrupting infrastructure, the earthquake caused landslides in rural areas and avalanches in mountainous regions.
Some 8.1 million people need emergency assistance. Strong aftershocks have forced people to sleep under tarpaulins or in tents on streets or in gardens, clear of falling debris. UNOCHA says 2.8 million people have lost their homes or been forced to stay elsewhere, while a total of 1.4 million urgently need food supplies.
LWF Response
The Lutheran World Federation launched an immediate large-scale emergency response with its emergency team already in place in Kathmandu. Immediately after the earthquake, LWF staff distributed tarpaulins, hygiene kits and ready-made food to about 400 families in Kathmandu. As well as assessing the situation in remote communities, its priorities now are to provide clean water, food, sanitation and hygiene materials, medication, and emergency shelter to people who lost their homes or who are staying outdoors.
The LWF is working with the Nepalese government, the United Nations system and church partners in the ACT Alliance network to coordinate the response. Kathmandu is the site of the LWF regional emergency hub, which has been activated.
Since 1984, the LWF has worked in several regions of Nepal, including the heavily-affected Bhaktapur, Lamjung and Pokhara regions. With staff on the ground and infrastructure in place, it is well-positioned to offer immediate assistance.
Dr. Bijaya Bajracharya
Country Director
