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 22nd May 2015, ACTED teams conducted KII/FGD assessments with community leaders in Laamidanda and Sunkhani VDCs in Dolakha District.
The population and household numbers, according to the 2011 National Census, are as follows:
Laamidanda VDC: 1,045 HH, 4,232 Population
Sunkhani VDC: 1,194 HH, 4,675 Population
According to the community leaders however, the current population figures stand at:
Laamidanda VDC: 1,400 HH, Approx. 7,000 Population
Sunkhani VDC: 1,925 HH, Approx. 7,700 Population
In Laamidanda, it is estimated that 100% of houses have been completely destroyed, 25% in the first earthquake and 75% in the second. In Sunkhani, 100% of houses have been either damaged or destroyed. Homes are uninhabitable, and people are lacking basic household items. Temporary shelter was reported as the priority need, followed by food assistance and sanitation support. Most people are now living outside in makeshift shelters.
