DTI News

December 3, 2024
English हिन्दी

“Nepal earthquake: Death toll rises to 128, over 500 injured, rescue teams dig in hill villages to locate survivors”

Kathmandu: A devastating earthquake measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale shook Nepal late Friday night, claiming the lives of at least 128 people and more than 500 others injured. The affected regions, particularly Jajarkot and West Rukum, are grappling with the aftermath of the disaster, with the death toll expected to rise as rescue teams tirelessly scour the mountain villages for survivors.

The epicenter of the quake, which struck at 11:47 pm local time, was pinpointed in Jajarkot, situated northeast of the capital, Kathmandu. The tremors reverberated beyond Nepal‘s borders, with reports of the quake being felt in New Delhi, as well as parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The US Geological Survey initially reported a magnitude of 5.6, originating from a shallow depth of approximately 18 kilometers. Unfortunately, earthquakes originating from such depths often unleash unparalleled destruction.

The harrowing reality of the disaster is vividly captured by the reports from the ground. The district of Jajarkot, already reeling from the devastation, has borne the brunt of the catastrophe, accounting for at least 44 confirmed deaths. Meanwhile, the neighboring region of West Rukum has reported a staggering 36 casualties, with fears of a rising toll persisting. “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),” Hari Prasad Pant, Chief District Officer of West Rukum, disclosed to the media, reflecting the somber mood in the affected areas.

The toll of suffering continues to mount, with over 140 people reported injured, according to the Kathmandu Post. Nepal’s Prime Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of lives and swiftly mobilized the nation’s security forces for an intensive search and relief operation.

The situation on the ground remains grim, as rescue teams grapple with collapsed homes and inaccessible regions hampered by landslides triggered by the seismic jolt. Despite the formidable challenges, these teams persist in their efforts, working in tandem with local villagers to extricate survivors from the debris and provide urgent medical aid.

This tragic event is a painful reminder of Nepal’s vulnerability to seismic activity, with the memory of the catastrophic 7.8 magnitude earthquake in 2015 still haunting the collective consciousness. The scars from that disaster, which claimed 9,000 lives, have yet to heal completely. Just a few weeks ago, on October 22, Kathmandu was jolted by another 6.1 magnitude quake, fortunately resulting in no reported casualties or damages. As the nation grapples with this fresh disaster, the resilience of its people and the outpouring of international support offer a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness.

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