A significant earthquake with a magnitude of 6.4 struck Nepal at a depth of 10 kilometers. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) provided these details, stating that the earthquake's epicenter was located at a latitude of 28.84 N and a longitude of 82.19 E.
This event marked the third strong earthquake to hit Nepal within a month.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow for the loss of lives caused by the earthquake. He pledged India's solidarity with Nepal and offered assistance to those affected. The earthquake resulted in substantial damage and casualties.
Key updates on the earthquake include the following:
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The earthquake's epicenter was identified as Jajarkot, situated approximately 250 miles northeast of Nepal's capital, Kathmandu.
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The earthquake claimed at least 128 lives and left 140 individuals injured.
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Strong tremors were felt in several northern Indian states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and the Delhi-NCR region.
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Nepal's Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal expressed his condolences and directed security agencies to provide immediate rescue and relief to the injured.
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In the Jajarkot village near the epicenter, which has a population of 190,000, communication remains severed. Rescue teams are facing challenges in reaching the affected areas due to blocked roads caused by dry landslides.
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Jajarkot district reported 17 confirmed fatalities, while Nepal's Rukum district recorded at least 20 deaths. Numerous houses collapsed in Rukum due to the earthquake.
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Communication has been disrupted with many villages in Nepal, making it difficult to gather information.
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At least 20 people in Jajarkot district were injured and hospitalized, but collecting detailed information has been hindered by cold weather and the late hour. Rescue personnel have been mobilized to assist.
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Police officials in affected areas reported collapsed houses and residents rushing to safety, and efforts are underway to assess the extent of damage.
The earthquake's impact has been widespread, affecting both Nepal and neighbouring regions in India. Efforts to rescue and assist those affected are ongoing, but challenging conditions, including communication difficulties and blocked roads, are impeding relief operations.
Deeply saddened by loss of lives and damage due to the earthquake in Nepal. India stands in solidarity with the people of Nepal and is ready to extend all possible assistance. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families and we wish the injured a quick recovery. @cmprachanda
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 4, 2023
