‘Kathmandu is enveloped in a cloud of dust’

After the initial earthquake of 7.9 magnitude on the Richter scale, Kathmandu was hit by at least five weaker aftershocks. Many buildings in the capital have collapsed and most structures have suffered some form of damage, either moderate or severe. Many parts of the city are enveloped in a cloud of dust from the collapse of buildings.

According to initial reports, at least 135 people have been killed. Around 3,000 people have been treated for injuries in the streets.

Damage is yet to be ascertained in Pokhara near the epicentre of the earthquake. Authorities fear more severe damage in this valley surrounded by mountains.

Two reports indicate that avalanches triggered by the earthquake have hit the Everest base camp. An unconfirmed number of mountaineers are feared trapped.

(This report was filed in the afternoon after the quake. The death toll in Nepal has since crossed 1,000.)

Disaster management plans in view of recent earthquakes