Public education, improving warning systems & integrating disaster risk reduction into policy frameworks have been the focus
The restoration of heritage sites and trekking routes became a priority to revive the tourism industry, a source of livelihood for many. Photo: Siddharth Behl On the anniversary of the April 25, 2015 earthquake in Nepal, memories of the devastating day resurface, reminding us of the resilience and strength exhibited by the country Nepal and its people. The 7.8 magnitude earthquake with epicentre near the district of Gorkha claimed nearly 9,000 lives and injured over 22,000.
The immediate aftermath saw unprecedented scenes of chaos and distress. Villages near the epicentre were flattened, and in the capital, Kathmandu, historic landmarks crumbled. Hundreds of thousands were homeless overnight.
A humanitarian crisis was apparent, with shortages of water, food and medical aid. Many survivors were left to fend for themselves, living in makeshift tents amidst the ruins of their homes. The psychological toll was immense, with countless people experiencing trauma and fear of aftershocks that continued for months.
This pivotal event tested the fortitude of the nation and set the stage for a remarkable story of recovery and rebuilding.
In the face of such massive devastation, the response from both national and international communities was swift. The government of Nepal, along with numerous international aid agencies, mobilised quickly to provide emergency relief and medical care. Rescue and recovery teams from around the world came to assist in the efforts, pulling survivors from the rubble and providing essential supplies. This phase was crucial in stabilising the situation and preventing further loss of life and health complications.
Rebuilding Nepal’s damaged infrastructure was a monumental task. The government launched the National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) to oversee the reconstruction of homes, schools and public buildings.
With international donors pledging over $4 billion in aid, reconstruction projects began to slowly reshape the physical and social landscape of the affected regions. Efforts were made to rebuild stronger, earthquake-resistant structures.
By 2020, progress had been notable. Yet, challenges such as funding gaps, logistical issues and political complexities sometimes slowed the pace of recovery.
The earthquake had a significant impact on Nepal’s economy, particularly in sectors like tourism, which was a major source of income for many local people. The restoration of heritage sites and trekking routes became a priority to revive the tourism industry.
Additionally, programmes aimed at improving livelihoods were implemented, focusing on skill development and job creation to help communities become more self-reliant. Women and marginalised groups received special attention to ensure their participation in the rebuilding process, fostering a more inclusive approach to economic recovery.
Beyond the physical reconstruction, Nepal has worked on strengthening its disaster preparedness and resilience. Initiatives to educate the public about earthquake safety, improve warning systems and integrate disaster risk reduction into national policy frameworks have been key focus areas.
Communities today are more engaged in disaster preparedness drills and have better knowledge of building resilient structures. The lessons learnt from the 2015 earthquake have transformed Nepal’s approach to managing natural disasters, aiming to safeguard its people and heritage against future calamities.
In response to Nepal’s 2015 earthquake, the government of the neighbouring country India joined hands with civil society groups to help the country rebuild. Delhi-based foundation SEEDS, for instance, facilitated sustainable reconstruction, set up emergency schools, built 2,520 resilient ‘Namaste Ghar’ shelters and helped address water scarcity with innovative solutions. It also oversaw the construction of 26,912 homes in Gorkha, enhancing community engagement and training.
Nepal’s journey since the 2015 earthquake is an example of resilience and perseverance of its people. While the road to complete recovery and preparedness is still long, the progress made in rebuilding and strengthening the nation is a beacon of hope for other countries facing similar challenges.
The article was authored by Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society (SEEDS), India. Views expressed don’t necessarily reflect those of Down To Earth.
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