An earthquake struck western Nepal on November 4, 2023 with a magnitude of 6.4, which resulted in a severe loss of life. As per the reports, at least 157 people have lost their lives, and several others have undergone injuries. The effect of the earthquake was on neighboring countries including the northern part of India with moderate tremors reaching up to New Delhi, which was approximately 500 kilometers from the epicenter.
Nepal is situated in a seismically active area, located on a major geological faultline where the Indian tectonic plate collides with the Eurasian plate, leading to the formation of the Himalayan mountain range. Hence, earthquakes are common in the region. From past years, this earthquake is the most tragic one experienced by Nepal.
The fatalities are concentrated in specific places, with 105 deaths reported in Jajarkot and neighboring Rukum West district reporting 52 death counts both of which are located in the Karnali jurisdiction. In order to locate survivors in the destruction of collapsed buildings, rescue workers are diligently working, often involving their bare hands as a life saving effort.
Narayan Kaji Shrestha, the Deputy Prime Minister of Nepal has said that both India and China have given their support for rescue and search operations. Anyhow, the authorities of Nepal have responded that they are currently involved in preliminary search, rescue and relief operations and if the situations worsen, they would ask for additional assistance, if necessary.
This tragic earthquake reminds the seismic vulnerability of the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015, which nearly claimed 9000 lives and destroyed more than half a million homes. In addition, Nepal experienced another significant earthquake in November 2022 with a magnitude of 5.6 and resulted in six casualties in the Doti district, near Jajarkot.
The condition is being closely looked after and international assistance may be needed as the rescue and relief efforts continue in the affected areas of Nepal.
