Nepal hit by 4.1 magnitude earthquake amid flood recovery

A 4.1 magnitude earthquake struck western Nepal on a Wednesday night, with its epicenter located in the Budhiganga Municipality of the Bajura district. Tremors were felt in the neighboring districts of Bajhang, Kalikot, and Achham, though no immediate damage or casualties were reported from the seismic event.

The earthquake occurs as the nation manages the aftermath of devastating floods and landslides that struck in late August. Government figures indicate that at least 1,455 people died and 5,285 remain missing following those disasters. The impact included damage to approximately 7,500 homes and affected nearly 33,000 people. Reconstruction and recovery efforts are estimated to cost roughly $4.77 billion.

Infrastructure damage from the floods is extensive, with the UNDP reporting damage to 70 km of roads, 80 bridges, 13 hydropower projects, and 150 km of telecommunications fiber. Amid these challenges, experts are calling for improved disaster risk reduction in school curricula, emphasizing the need for practical simulations and drills to prepare students for complex mountain hazards.