2025 年 12 巻 1 号 p. 106
Introduction and Objective: On November 3, 2023, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck Jajarkot in the western part of Nepal, resulting in 154 fatalities, 366 injuries, the complete destruction of 26,557 houses, and partial damage to 35,455 houses. This report analyzes the situation 3 months after the earthquake. The primary objective is to assess recovery efforts, living conditions, and the roles of governmental and non-governmental agencies in the aftermath.
Approaches: A three-member team from the Disaster Preparedness Network (DPNet)-Nepal conducted a field visit from February 5 to February 11, 2024. The study is based on observations, focus group discussions with NGOs, and interviews with local government officials, and disaster survivors.
Findings: The team found immediate search and rescue operations satisfactory, but relief distribution faced significant discrepancies, leading to conflicts. Delays in government reconstruction assistance and challenges in constructing temporary shelters, primarily made of galvanized iron sheets, were major issues. A bamboo and mud model shelter showed promise as a better alternative. Health services faced severe challenges, including inadequate maternal healthcare and rising mental health issues. Misuse of relief funds influenced by political affiliations, insecurity for families constructing temporary shelters on rented land, and lack of accurate data on vulnerable populations hindered effective aid distribution. Participants in focus group discussions and interviews rated the overall governmental disaster response 7 out of 10.
Discussion: The report emphasizes the need for improved coordination, equitable aid distribution, sustainable reconstruction practices, pre-disaster data collection, training and activation of the national Emergency Medical Team (EMT), designated warehouses or evacuation centers, a uniform reporting mechanism, and adherence to Sphere standards. Effective collaboration among all stakeholders is crucial to addressing ongoing challenges and supporting affected populations comprehensively.
