JAJARKOT: The powerful 6.4 magnitude earthquake in the dead of Friday night in Jajarkot rendered all of the village’s approximately 3,500 houses uninhabitable.

According to Bir Bahadur Giri, Chairman of Barekot Rural Municipality of Jajarkot, estimated 80 percent of the houses require complete reconstruction, with the remaining structures also deemed highly vulnerable.

The locals, still reeling from the Friday midnight quake, are now too fearful to venture near their damaged homes.

He stated that despite remaining resilient throughout the day, the earthquake victims grew increasingly despondent as the evening wore on.

“The situation has turned dire, with people seeking refuge under nearby foliage and trees,” Giri stated.

He pointed out the challenging conditions the earthquake victims face due to the cold weather, aggravated by the delay in the arrival of relief aid from the Karnali state government.

He also emphasized an urgent requirement for 3,000 tarps and blankets to provide immediate shelter and warmth to those affected.

With limited shelter and clothing available, the affected populace has resorted to burning firewood to stave off the cold.

The victims of the earthquake encompass a wide demographic, including children, the elderly, and newborns.

The state government and district administration have pledged to expedite the distribution of relief materials by today.

However, Chairman Giri highlighted a concerning shortage of essential medicines and healthcare professionals in the village.

“The earthquake victims are undergoing significant distress, with a possibility of enduring psychological effects; the presence of psychiatrists may be necessary,” he said.

The midnight earthquake resulted in the tragic loss of more than 157 lives in Jajarkot, while 52 people perished in Rukum West.

As a consequence, thousands of citizens in the two districts have been compelled to seek shelter on the streets.