KATHMANDU: In the earthquake-stricken Jajarkot district, the first phase of financial aid distribution for reconstruction has been initiated by local governments.

On Thursday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority dispatched the initial installment of financial aid to Shivalaya Rural Municipality. Sher Bahadur Shahi, Chairman of the Rural Municipality, confirmed the receipt of the aid and stated that it would soon be distributed to the victims.

The financial assistance, totaling Rs 8,27,25,000, is earmarked to benefit 3,309 victims in the rural municipality, with each recipient receiving Rs 25,000. The District Administration Office is overseeing the distribution process.

This critical aid distribution process follows the initiation of similar efforts in Rukum Paschim from the previous Tuesday.

A preliminary report indicates that the earthquake resulted in the destruction of 34,498 houses in the region. Among these, 9,794 were completely demolished, while 24,707 suffered minor damages.