KATHMANDU, Nepal — Nepal observed the 10th anniversary of the catastrophic 2015 earthquake with a commemorative ceremony on Friday, emphasizing a commitment to enhancing preparedness for future calamities.
At the exact moment of the quake on April 25, 2015, which struck at 11:56 a.m., Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli, alongside key ministers, officials, and diplomats, stood silently, paying homage to those who perished. This tribute took place at the site of a tower that collapsed, claiming the lives of 180 individuals.
The destructive event, which was a magnitude 7.8 earthquake, resulted in nearly 9,000 fatalities, injured over 22,000 people, and caused destruction to approximately 1 million homes and structures.
“Despite the massive loss of life and property, we managed to recuperate and rebuild successfully,” remarked Oli. “Nepal has demonstrated resilience.”
Oli, in company with ministers and diplomats from nations that assisted Nepal in rescue operations, recovery, and subsequent reconstruction efforts, lit candles in memory of the individuals who lost their lives in the earthquake.
“It would have been impossible to achieve this alone,” stated Oli. “We extend our gratitude to all partner countries and agencies for their support.”
Anil Pokhrel, who has led the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority and retired recently, reported that about 80% of earthquake-damaged structures have been reconstructed, with nearly all educational establishments and public buildings updated to new safety protocols.
In rural regions, approximately 95% of the affected homes have been rebuilt, although progress is slower in urban areas, primarily due to challenges such as property disputes or reconstruction plans.
The government provided families with $3,000 to aid in home reconstruction and established offices staffed with engineers and experts across all affected districts to assist in rebuilding efforts.
“Nepal’s journey of reconstruction, considering the timeframe, scope, process, and collaboration with development partners, is truly regarded as an exemplary model of reconstruction and recovery,” expressed Pokhrel.