Nepal: Far Western Earthquake Response in Nepal DREF ...

What happened, where and when?

An earthquake measuring 6.6 Richter scale struck far western Nepal on 9 November 2022. The epicentre was located in the wildlife conservation area of Khaptad Chhana Rural Municipality of Bajhang District, which adjoins Doti and Achham districts. The tremor was felt in neighbouring districts (Bajhang, Kailali, Kanchanpur, Banke, Western Rukum), as well as in various parts of India. Furthermore, many aftershocks occurred in the affected areas. The earthquake occurred at 2 A.M. while people were sleeping in their homes, resulting in many houses and families affected in Achham, Bajura, Bajhang and Doti districts.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), six people lost their lives when they were buried under the rubble of their collapsed houses. Moreover, eight people were injured in Purbichauki Rural Municipality of Doti District. Many houses collapsed, and most houses in municipalities adjoining to the epicentre had cracks. Almost all residents of these areas in the four districts immediately evacuated their houses and sought refuge in open spaces. There was an immediate need of lifesaving support, including tarpaulins for emergency shelter, safe drinking water, ready-to-eat food, psychosocial support (MHPSS - Mental Health & Psychosocial Support Service), and protection services.