Introduction
On the fateful night of November 3, 2023, a destructive earthquake of magnitude 6.4 struck Nepal’s Karnali province, significantly impacting Jajarkot and Rukum districts. The earthquake’s epicenter was identified at Ramidanda, Jajarkot district, triggering numerous aftershocks and compelling local residents to seek refuge in open spaces. The aftermath has left 38,705 families affected, with 12,060 families losing 62,012 houses. Approximately 250,000 people are now exposed to hazards, facing considerable risks. According to the Education cluster, 138 schools are fully damaged and 334 schools are partially damaged. The situation report of November 5, 2023, emphasizes the urgency of addressing critical gaps in winterization, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), and MHPSS (Mental Health and Psychosocial Support).
Current Situation and Alliance2015 Joint Response
The dire situation necessitates immediate action, as reports indicate substantial damage and a growing number of casualties. Alliance2015 partners Welthungerhilfe (WHH), Helvetas, and People in Need (PIN) have united to launch a joint response, focusing on WASH, shelter, and food assistance. As part of this effort, Alliance2015 partners are actively supporting provincial and district authorities in standardizing reporting templates through the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Law (MoIAL) and District Emergency Operation Center (DEOC).
The relief distribution approach in Jajarkot involves the endorsement of a streamlined ‘one-door distribution method’ by the District Administration Office (DAO). This method empowers designated organizations, collaborating with local governments for efficient material distribution. The District Disaster Management Committee (DDMC) plays a crucial role in formalizing collaboration through official letters specifying the details of the materials to be distributed.
Recognizing the urgency, Alliance2015 members commit to a joint response, leveraging the unique assets and resources of each member. Helvetas, with existing WASH projects in the affected regions, assumes a leadership role, while WHH and PIN contribute financial support and human resources.
The activation of the cluster system streamlines relief efforts, with a joint humanitarian assessment involving various organizations in the planning stages. Alliance2015 partners have formed a dedicated team led by Helvetas, developing a relief plan prioritizing the distribution of shelter items, winterization support, food and nutrition items, and WASH cluster materials in the most affected municipalities. Mobilization of relief supplies is already underway, with ongoing distribution of Tarpaulins, winterization kits, and WASH cluster materials.
In particular, distribution of Tarpaulins and winterization kits, including thermal blankets, mattresses, warm clothing, tarpaulins, etc. ongoing in the field. Regarding WASH cluster materials: procurement has been initiated for hygiene kits, containing essential items such as Piyush/Aqua tabs, water buckets, mugs, etc. The first lot of relief materials have reached to Bheri and Barekot Municipalities. The materials have been distributed in coordination with the earthquake-affected families and palika. In Barekot, the relief materials have been registered and transferred to the tractor near the Limsya (Near the Municipality Office). Based on the coordination with the Palika office the relief items will be distributed in the wards number 4 and 5; where Helvetas and WHH are supporting on the ground. WHH team conducted the Rapid needs assessment along with a partner at Nalagadh Municipality, Jajarkot and Aathbiskot Municipality, West Rukum on upcoming priority of local government and gap in recent response.
Challenges and Ongoing Activities
Despite progress, challenges such as communication interruptions, road blockages, and approaching winter conditions persist. Relief activities have commenced in Jajarkot district, addressing immediate needs by providing mattresses, tarpaulins, and water filters to those who have lost their homes. The most significant hurdle remains accessing affected areas due to damaged roads. Discrepancies in data, communication challenges, and transportation hurdles highlight the need for strengthened capacity, human resource support, and improved coordination with local, district, and provincial governments.
Conclusion
As Nepal grapples with the aftermath of the Jajarkot earthquake, Alliance2015 partners, spearheaded by Helvetas, remain actively engaged in providing immediate relief to affected communities. The collaborative effort between international and national organizations underscores a coordinated response to the diverse needs arising from this crisis. Although the road to recovery is undoubtedly long, ongoing support ensures these communities can gradually rebuild and regain stability.
Sources:
Jajarkot Earthquake – Joint response of Alliance2015, Situation analysis report 03, November 10, 2023
Jajarkot Earthquake – Joint response of Alliance2015, Situation analysis report 01, November 05, 2023
Press Release (Welthungerhilfe): Earthquake in Nepal, first relief supplies on their way. November 05, 2023: https://www.welthungerhilfe.org/news/press-releases/earthquake-in-nepal-first-relief-supplies-on-their-way
