Over a Month After the Disaster, Harsh Winter Conditions Claim 38 Lives

At least 38 survivors of Nepal’s recent earthquake have died after spending more than a month in makeshift tents as freezing temperatures grip the region. More than 40,000 people remain displaced under tarpaulin shelters, struggling to cope with the harsh winter conditions.

The earthquake, which struck over a month ago and claimed at least 153 lives, initially saw a response from local NGOs and UN agencies providing emergency supplies such as food, water, and tents. However, Nepal has not received any international donor support for reconstruction efforts, despite appealing for aid shortly after the disaster.

Bhim Prasad Dhakal, police chief of Karnali province, confirmed that nighttime temperatures have dropped below freezing. Among the victims is three-year-old Raksha Badi, who died of pneumonia due to the cold. Her mother, Mina Badi, described their struggle: “Tarpaulin sheets cannot resist the cold, and we had no warm clothes.”

As winter intensifies, survivors face worsening conditions, raising urgent concerns about the need for immediate humanitarian assistance and long-term rebuilding efforts.