Kathmandu: A powerful earthquake measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale struck the western region of Nepal late on Friday, resulting in a toll of at least 128 lives lost and 141 individuals wounded. The tremor, which originated in the Jajarkot district at 11:47 pm, caused massive destruction, with the most severe impact being felt in Jajarkot and West Rukum.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Santosh Roka confirmed that Jajarkot bore the brunt of the disaster, with 92 casualties reported. Among the victims was Deputy Mayor Sarita Singh of Nalgad Municipality. The injured, numbering more than 55, received urgent medical attention at local healthcare facilities, with some requiring transfer to the Karnali Province Hospital in Surkhet.
Similarly, in West Rukum, the situation remained grim, with 36 fatalities recorded, according to Deputy Superintendent of Police Namaraj Bhattarai. Aathbiskot Municipality and Sanibheri Rural Municipality were particularly hard hit, accounting for 36 and 8 deaths, respectively.
In West Rukum, the number of injured stood at 85, with one individual in critical condition slated for evacuation. The remaining injured were being treated at various medical centers, including the district hospital, Chaurjahari Hospital, and other healthcare facilities. Karnali Province Police reported a significant number of casualties in Ramidanda of Barekot Rural Municipality, with 44 deaths and 70 injuries.
Amidst the chaos, all available security forces have been mobilized to aid in search and rescue operations.
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