Nepal earthquake – over 150 dead

There was a 5.6 magnitude earthquake reported last night (Fri 3 November), just before midnight in the Jajarkot region in the far west of Nepal.

At time of writing, tragically around 150 people have died, with 140 injured though this is expected to rise.

Rescuers are working around the clock to pull people from the rubble but access to some areas is difficult because landslides have made roads impassable.

Several aftershocks have occurred since, and the tremors have been felt in neighbouring Sudurpaschim, Lumbini Province, as well as in other areas of Nepal and as far away as Delhi, India.

Our closest Area Welfare Centre is in Bheri and all staff are safe. The team there are continuing to contact vulnerable Gurkha veterans and their families in the area however this will take time. Mercifully, there are relatively few living in the area. All serving Gurkhas on leave in the west have been accounted for.

“This is a tragic situation for all involved and we send our best to those affected. Though we know that Nepal is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world, the force with which they strike will always continue to humble us. The Gurkha Welfare Trust will continue to support where we can and ensure that our most vulnerable veterans and widows in the region are safe.”

Al Howard, CEO, The Gurkha Welfare Trust