Nepal earthquake levels the lives and livelihoods of thousands
The country finds itself with a “dire need of emergency rescue and relief”, particularly shelter, water and food, says FIAN Nepal.
A 7.8 magnitude earthquake rocked Nepal last 25th April leveling the country and ending the lives of almost 4500, according to the latest estimates. FIAN International expresses concern over the massive destruction it has left behind and emphasizes the need for a continuous mobilization of relief, including the provision of basic dry food and water to all those affected, after what has been considered one of the worst natural disasters in Nepal’s history.
With rescue operations still undergoing, governments and organizations the world over have shown their solidarity by raising funds to save those under the debris and providing assistance to the people who have lost their homes and livelihoods. However, assistance appears to be focused in Kathmandu at the moment, while poorest communities still cry out for basic relief, some locals stress.
FIAN Nepal, an organisation that works towards the right to food in Nepal, notes that fear permeates as recurring shocks and rain still hit the country. Amid hundreds in the streets mourning the lives of loved ones, local civil society organizations working in some of the most affected areas, are risking their own lives and participating in rescue operations, despite lacking modern equipment to ensure their own safety.
FIAN Nepal’s team points out a lack of coordination amongst government agencies, resulting in relief packages not reaching the stranded victims, especially in those communities most in need. “There is a dire need of emergency rescue and relief. The priority needs are shelter, water, medical assistance and food,” FIAN Nepal stresses.
Our team in the country also underlines that a human rights approach in terms of relief and rehabilitation work is crucial, so human rights principles like non-discrimination, participation, transparency and accountability are adhered to. In particular, to ensure comprehensive long-term rehabilitation and compensation for the losses, participatory consultations with the affected population, as well as a wide-ranging data survey, need to be carried out.