1. Situation Overview
On April 25th 2015, an earthquake of magnitude 7.5 Richter scale struck Nepal causing a level of devastation that had not been experienced in the country for at least 80 years. Millions of people have been affected by the disaster, with 8,219 people confirmed dead and over 20,000 more injured. The epicentre of the earthquake was located 77km northwest of Kathmandu, in the Ghorka district.
A second earthquake, measuring 7.3 magnitude, struck Nepal on May 12th 2015. The epicentre was in Dholaka District, 18 KM southeast of Kodari (Sindhupalchowk District)- an area already affected by the 25 April quake. The second earthquake was followed by several aftershocks, including a 5.6 magnitude tremor and a 6.3 magnitude tremor in Dholaka District. Strong aftershocks continue to be felt. Many areas around the epicentre are particularly susceptible to landslides.
On 13th May 2015, ACTED teams conducted KII/FGD assessments with community leaders in two VDCs in Dhading District, namely Sangkosh VDC and Katunje VDC. Dhading District neighbours Ghorka District, where the epicentre of the first earthquake was located.
The population and household numbers, according to the 2011 National Census, are as follows:
Sangkosh VDC: 1244 HH, 5521 Population
Katunje VDC: 1425 HH, 5906 Population
In both locations, it is estimated that between 90 and 100% of houses have been significantly damaged or completely destroyed, and almost all households are now living outside of their homes in makeshift shelters or tents.
Both communities identified food as their first priority need as stocks are now running low, particularly in Sangkosh. Shelter was also reported to be a significant concern.