USAID Announces $1.37 Million for Jajarkot Earthquake Recovery

The United States Government, through USAID, has pledged $1.37 million to aid recovery efforts in the aftermath of the devastating 2023 earthquake in Jajarkot.

The earthquake, measuring 5.6 on the Richter scale, struck Jajarkot and Rukum West on November 3, 2023, resulting in the loss of at least 154 lives and leaving hundreds injured. The catastrophe inflicted extensive damage to homes and buildings, leading to widespread displacement and disrupting essential services. Urgent needs for shelter, food, clean water, and medical care emerged in the quake-affected areas.

According to a statement issued by the US Embassy in Kathmandu, the assistance provided by USAID, channeled through Save the Children, aims to bolster the resilience of communities affected by the earthquake. The support is designed to help them withstand the harsh winter conditions, recover from the destruction caused by the quake, and ultimately rebuild stronger than before.

In addition to the current aid package, USAID swiftly mobilized existing programs to offer vital relief supplies, water quality kits, and aid for physical rehabilitation immediately after the earthquake struck. This assistance supplements over $23.3 million previously invested by USAID in disaster risk reduction and resilience initiatives in Karnali since 2019.

USAID also commits to supporting longer-term recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation efforts in the region in the months ahead, ensuring sustained assistance to those affected by the earthquake.