Nepal: A devastating magnitude-6.4 earthquake rocked the northwestern region of Nepal late last night, claiming the lives of at least 128 people and leaving 140 others injured, according to officials. Authorities have expressed concerns that the death toll may rise as rescue operations continue.
The earthquake struck shortly before midnight, catching residents unaware as they slept. The hardest-hit areas have been identified as Jajarkot and West Rukum. Of the reported casualties, 92 individuals tragically lost their lives in Jajarkot, while 36 fatalities were recorded in Rukum West.
Nepal’s Prime Minister, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, swiftly issued instructions to mobilize the Army and national police forces for immediate rescue and relief efforts. Reports of injuries and property damage have also emerged from other districts, including Dailekh, Salyan, and Rolpa.
Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal personally journeyed to the earthquake-affected region, accompanied by a team of healthcare professionals, to lead rescue, search, and relief operations. His press advisor confirmed that the Prime Minister departed for Jajarkot, bringing with him a 16-member medical team from the Nepali Army.
This heartbreaking seismic event has brought back memories of the devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015, claiming the lives of approximately 9,000 people and causing extensive damage to over a million structures, resulting in immense financial losses.
Rescue teams, including 67 personnel from the Armed Police Force Central Office and Nepali Army personnel, have been deployed to Jajarkot and Rukum West to conduct search and rescue missions.
Tremors from the earthquake were also felt in neighbouring India, reaching as far as New Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and other parts of northern India.
The affected communities are now focused on relief and recovery efforts as they come to terms with the tragic loss and destruction brought about by this natural disaster.
