Nepal earthquake one month on: People continue to struggle to survive

Kathmandu, May 25: Today Nepal marks its first month anniversary of devastating earthquake that jolted this Himalayan nation on April 25. Thousands of people were killed and severe damage to the property were reported after the earthquake. It was termed as deadliest disaster in more than 80 years in the country.

More than 8,600 people died since the devastating earthquake hit Nepal last month, followed by another on May 12, destroying nearly half a million houses and leaving thousands without food or water.

The afternoon of April 25 brought nightmare for thousands of people across the nation after an earthquake measuring 7.8 on Richter scale jolted it. The epicentre was at the village of Barpak, Gorkha district, and its hypocenter was at a depth of approximately 15 km.

Evidence of earthquake still scattered everywhere in the affected areas in Nepal. Thousands are still camping out in the field due to ongoing aftershocks.

Many are struggling to get their life back on the track but their effort has been resulted into vein. More than 20 countries have been involved in the rescue operations, but aid agencies are still struggling to cope and the UN says it has received only around a fifth of the $415 million it needs.

According to government estimate, Nepal needs estimated $7bn, a third of the country's GDP, for reconstruction of the country. It could take years to rebuild the country.

Aid organisations are worried about the possible spread of disease and the risk of further displacement in a country ill-equipped to help those most in need.

There are also concerns that reconstruction could be severely disrupted by the rainy season.

(With inputs from various sources)