- Jajarkot
“When a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck Jajarkot on 23 November 2023, it was heart-wrenching to see thousands displaced and left vulnerable to the harsh winter cold,” Sabin shares. Amidst the chaos, he found purpose in supporting the relief and response efforts led by Habitat Nepal, one of which was coordinating “Surakshit Awas” (Safe Shelter), a 13-episode radio program, that ran for three months and became a lifeline for many.
Produced by Samudayik Radio Khalanga and supported by Habitat Nepal, the program delivered critical information on disaster response, temporary shelters, and reconstruction planning. “Each episode was a collective effort,” Sabin recalls, “bringing together experts, government officials, and community representatives to share insights and solutions.”
For Sabin, one of the most poignant moments was hearing from Hemraj, a resident from Bheri Municipality-3, who had found solace in a temporary shelter built through local and external support. “Their gratitude and resilience reminded me why our work matters,” he reflects.
Beyond the radio program, the Habitat team helped coordinate training sessions for engineers and sub-engineers from seven local governments, equipping them with the knowledge to ensure safe and sustainable reconstruction. This training focused on temporary shelter guidelines, adherence to building codes, and streamlining the tranche release process. By building the capacity of technical personnel, the initiative ensured that reconstruction efforts were safe, efficient, and sustainable, offering long-term security to affected families.
Sabin’s experience highlighted three vital takeaways:
1️. 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬: Clear, timely communication empowers communities during crises.
2. 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: Skilled technical personnel are essential for safer reconstruction.
3. 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐤𝐞𝐲: The strength of communities, government, and organizations working together is unparalleled.
As we reflect on National Earthquake Safety Day, Sabin’s story reminds us of the power of collective action and the resilience of communities in the face of adversity. Let’s continue to prepare, support, and stand together for a safer tomorrow.