Following the earthquake that struck Nepal recently, more than 4,000 people were reported to have been killed by the evening of 28 April. The tremors were felt across India, Tibet and Bangladesh and several aftershocks have followed since. Rather sadly, the death toll is rising and the devastating calamity has affected over 4 million (4,000,000) people.

The Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) was quick to respond to the situation. Dr S P Agarwal, the Secretary General of IRCS, immediately got in touch with the Secretary General of Nepal Red Cross Society and assured him of all possible support. Thereafter, he attended a meeting with the Secretary, Health, Government of India.

The water purification machine donated by the Indian Government through the Indian Red Cross Society was sent to Kathmandu. ©IRCS

The IRCS was asked by the Indian Government for support by providing a large water purification machine with capacity of delivering 3,000 litres of clean drinking water per hour, along with trained personnel. The IRCS was also requested to provide 100 stretchers. These were obtained from the partner organization, St. John Ambulance (India).

The equipment, accompanied by three trained personnel, were flown to Kathmandu in one of the aircraft provided by the Indian authorities. Five hundred body bags required to manage the mortal remains of victims have been provided by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and are also in the process of being sent to the Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS).

An emergency control room has been set up at the IRCS National Headquarters. The situation is being constantly monitored and the needs being assessed. The Secretary General is in touch with the NRCS, and the IRCS is standing by with all logistical and manpower resources.

Story courtesy Indian Red Cross Society