Nepal: Building back better after the earthquake

Central Nepal was struck by a devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake in April 2015. The powerful tremor did not only result in a devastating loss of life, but also destroyed a countless number of houses and public facilities in 14 districts across Nepal. To enable the affected families to get back on their feet at the earliest possible, the European Commission funded the 'Nepal Earthquake Recovery Project' in four highly-impacted districts of Dhading, Sindhupalchowk, Makwanpur and Rasuwa.

Implemented by a DanChurchAid-led consortium of humanitarian organisations, the initiative ensured that the most pressing needs of the most vulnerable communities were addressed. DanChurchAid and its partners delivered emergency relief consisting of shelter, food, winter supplies and access to water and sanitation, and spread knowledge on good hygiene practices. Trainings on earthquake-resilient construction techniques have also enabled local masons and carpenters to build homes which can withstand earthquakes. Thanks to this EU-funded project, more than 50 000 people – including children, women, the elderly and people with disabilities – in targeted areas are now equipped with means to restore their lives and cope with future disasters.