A SECOND earthquake has struck Nepal putting additional pressure on the existing rapid humanitarian relief effort that followed a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in the capital, Kathmandu, last month.
Yesterday’s 7.4 magnitude earthquake epicentre was 74km out of Kathmandu but its impact on top of last month’s quake will place already vulnerable children at increased risk, particularly as an early monsoon season is predicted.
Along with the reports of new casualties are efforts to assess the expanded damage and bring life-saving interventions for children.
“UNICEF has been working around the clock to get life-saving aid to children since the first ‘quake hit – including tents, safe drinking water, hygiene kits, medical supplies and vital counselling to help children come to terms with their experiences,” Ms Foley said.
“We have teams on the ground in every affected district. Our focus is now to include children who have been impacted by this new earthquake – both in terms of their immediate humanitarian needs and the devastating emotional impact that this new shock could have.”
UNICEF Australia Chief Executive Norman Gillespie echoed the comments of his Nepal-based colleague.
“We have seen an extraordinary outpouring of goodwill and support from Australians touched by the impact of last month’s earthquake,” Dr Gillespie said. “But this second ‘quake and the prediction of early monsoon rains will put enormous pressure on our existing rapid relief efforts.”
Dr Gillespie called on Australians who had not yet had an opportunity to donate to UNICEF’s Nepal emergency appeal to do so now.
“There is every indication an early monsoon season is coming for Nepal and we need to act quickly to ensure children are protected from the spread of disease and safe to return to a secure home,” he said.
Source: UNICEF Australia
Image: Young Sameer Sindai stands amid the rubble of his destroyed home, in the Dhading District, Nepal. A second earthquake hit Nepal on May 12th.
Source: © UNICEF/NYHQ2015-1193/Panda.
