#Editorial

Are We Prepared?

Published On: January 26, 2023 08:17 AM NPT By: Republica  | @RepublicaNepal


A 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck western Nepal, with its epicenter located in the Mela area of Bajura district in Sudurpaschim Province. At least one person was killed and one other injured. It is reported that at least 58 residential buildings were damaged as a result of the tremors. There are also reports that a landslide triggered by the earthquake resulted in the death of over 40 sheep belonging to a local. Thankfully, there were no reports of significant damage or loss of life. But this event serves as a reminder that earthquakes can strike at any time, and we must always be prepared. This is more so in case of western Nepal as various studies have shown that the lower Himalayan region in the Karnali region is highly vulnerable to earthquakes.

The earthquake can neither be prevented, nor can it be predicted. The only option left for us is to be better prepared to tackle the effects of earthquakes. This natural hazard can cause widespread destruction and loss of life. The mega earthquake that hit the country in 2015 is still fresh in our memory. The earthquake had claimed the lives of more than 9,000 people and caused destruction of properties worth billions. Thus, the most important thing we can do to protect ourselves and our communities is to be prepared. This means having a plan in place for what to do before, during, and after an earthquake. It also means being informed about the risks and hazards associated with earthquakes, and taking steps to reduce those risks. Of course, the government has been celebrating a day every year in the month of January as Earthquake Day to create awareness among people on the importance of preparedness. The government has also given priority to develop disaster resilient structures, especially after the earthquake that caused huge loss of life and properties in 2015. These are some of the positive developments taking place in this direction. But there is more that the government needs to work on in this front.

There are several other steps that can be taken to minimize the risk of earthquakes. The government must strictly enforce building codes so that all new buildings are earthquake-resistant. This can significantly help to minimize damage and collapse during an earthquake. People should be encouraged to retrofit older buildings to improve their structural integrity and increase their ability to withstand an earthquake. This can include adding seismic bracing, reinforcing walls and foundations, and installing seismic dampers. It is equally important to develop a system of land-use zoning to minimize the risk of earthquakes by limiting development in high-risk areas, such as on top of active faults or in areas prone to landslides. Conducting regular risk assessments can help identify areas of high risk and prioritize measures to reduce the risk of earthquakes in those areas. The government needs to make additional investment in research and monitoring of seismic activities and plate tectonics to predict where the earthquakes are most likely to occur. Given the fact that the earthquake cannot be prevented, local communities should be provided with necessary skills, knowledge and resources for emergency preparedness. Local communities can create emergency plans, conduct drills and educate the public on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake. These measures together can help protect ourselves and our communities from the dangers of earthquakes. Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that no single approach can completely eliminate the risk of earthquakes; a combination of different approaches can only help to reduce the potential impacts of the earthquakes. Let's work together to make sure we are ready for the next one.


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