Dashain unable to bring happiness to Bajura quake victims

By Sher Bahadur Sarki,Bajura, Oct. 28:This year's Dashain celebration in Bajura was not as vibrant as it used to be, as earthquake victims continues to struggle with the after-effects of the devastating tremor. Following the earthquake that struck on October 3, the majority of Bajura's local residents are compelled to reside in temporary shades.

Dashain has lost its colourful essence as families are compelled to reside beneath tarpaulin shelters.

Many earthquake victims recalled last year's Dashain when they happily welcomed Goddess Durga into their households and celebrated the festival in the comfort of their own homes.

Jeet Sarki, a local of Dogadi in Khaptad Chededaha Rural Municipality-5, said that this year's Dashain celebration has lost its charm. 

Recalling his hardships, he informed that the earthquake completely damaged his house, forcing his family to seek refuge under tarpaulin shade.

"At present, my family is compelled to reside under the open sky. Rather than enjoying Dashain and Tihar, this year my primary concern is ensuring the daily sustenance. Last year flood swept away our land and this year's earthquake destroyed our house," lamented Jeet Sarki.

According to Sarki, this is not just his story. Many earthquake victims are compelled to shifted their attention from enjoying festivals to arranging essential items for their families. 

Many houses were damaged by the earthquake that struck in January last year. The seismic event this year has caused additional damage to many of these already vulnerable structures.

According to Police Inspector Dan Singh Bhandari of District Police Office, Bajura, the recent earthquake has resulted in the complete destruction of 126 houses, partial damage to 176 houses, and minor damages to 307 houses in the district. 

Talking with The Rising Nepal, Chief District Officer of Bajura and coordinator of the District Disaster Management Committee, Bhim Kanta Paudel said, “The District Administration Office has been coordinating with the Ministry of Home Affairs to make proper arrangements for the earthquake victims in Bajura.”