India Rushes Aid to Quake-Hit Nepal as Death Toll Rises: First Country to Respond with Nine Tonnes of Relief Materials

 India has sent a second consignment of nine tonnes of emergency relief materials to Nepal to aid the quake-affected families in the northwest mountainous region. The region has been facing a shortage of essential supplies such as food, warm clothes, and medicines. This comes after a fresh tremor struck the area following a 6.4 magnitude earthquake that occurred on Friday, resulting in the death of 153 people and injuring over 250 others.

India has become the first country to dispatch emergency relief materials to the affected districts in Nepal. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed India's strong support to Nepal during this difficult time. The relief materials, which include essential medical and hygiene supplies, tents, sleeping bags, and blankets, were transported to Nepalgunj by a special Indian Air Force C-130. The first consignment of more than 11 tonnes of relief materials, including tents, tarpaulin sheets, blankets, and sleeping bags, along with essential medicines and medical equipment, was handed over to Nepal on Sunday.

The relief goods are being transported to the disaster-affected areas from Nepalgunj Airport, escorted by personnel from the Armed Police Force Nepal. While efforts are being made to provide relief, difficulties remain due to the difficult terrain, delayed response from the government, and limited resources. Many houses have been destroyed or rendered inhabitable, leaving residents exposed to the cold weather. The survivors are in urgent need of assistance, including warm clothes, medical help, and food supplies.

Moreover, the destruction of houses and toilets increases the risk of communicable diseases and contamination of water sources. There is a growing concern about the outbreak of cold-related ailments and waterborne diseases, as people are forced to live in open areas amidst falling temperatures and damaged infrastructure. Experts warn of an increased risk of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and scrub typhus. The situation remains challenging, and immediate action is needed to provide relief and prevent the outbreak of diseases. The Indian government, alongside other organizations, continues to extend support to the government of Nepal. Efforts are also being made to streamline relief distribution and ensure that the affected areas receive timely assistance.