KATHMANDU, Nov 30: The Election Commission’s (EC) office bearers have decided to contribute to the relief efforts for the earthquake victims who suffered from the devastating 6.4 magnitude earthquake on November 3.

A meeting held on Wednesday saw the EC officials pledging amounts equivalent to seven days’ salary from the Chief Commissioner and Commissioners.

Moreover, secretaries and joint secretaries from the Commission’s provincial and district offices are set to donate amounts equivalent to three days’ salary, while undersecretaries and section officers will contribute sums equal to two days’ salary. Other dedicated employees plan to provide assistance by contributing the equivalent of one day’s salary.

Shaligram Sharma Paudel, the Commission spokesperson, confirmed that the donated funds would be channeled through the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund. This collaborative effort aims to support those affected by the earthquake, which claimed the lives of at least 153 people, injured hundreds, and resulted in the complete destruction of over 26,500 private houses, with an additional 35,400 houses partially damaged in the tragedy.