Kathmandu, Nepal – Nepal marked the tenth anniversary of the devastating 2015 earthquake, a tragic event that claimed the lives of 8,969 individuals and left a profound impact on the nation. The commemoration on Friday included a minute’s silence, candlelight vigils, and heartfelt tributes as Nepalis gathered to remember the lives lost and reflect on the resilience that has shaped the country’s journey since.

The earthquake, which struck at 11:56 AM on 25 April 2015 with its epicentre at Barpak, Gorkha, measured 7.8 on the Richter scale and caused widespread destruction, leaving half a million homes and structures in ruins. A decade later, the scars of that calamity remain deeply etched in the collective memory of the Himalayan nation.

A Symbol of Loss and Renewal

The Dharahara Tower, once an iconic landmark of Kathmandu and a symbol of Nepal’s heritage, was reduced to rubble in the earthquake, killing dozens who were within or near its structure. Standing beneath a replica of the tower, Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli paid tribute to the victims.

“At 11:56 AM, with the epicentre at Barpak of Gorkha, a devastating earthquake had shaken the nation. It caused huge devastation, resulting in damage to property and lives. I would like to pay my tribute to those who lost their lives in that disaster,” Prime Minister Oli stated.

Efforts to rebuild the Dharahara began with the laying of its foundation stone on 28 December 2019, followed by awarding the construction contract to Raman Construction Company Limited. The new tower, designed in the same architectural style as the original but with a larger diameter, now stands 72 metres tall with 22 storeys. Despite these efforts, the remains of the old Dharahara remain covered by tin roofing and green curtains—a poignant reminder of the disaster’s aftermath.

Challenges in Reconstruction

Nepal’s Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) report highlights the nation’s vulnerability to earthquakes, ranking it as the 11th most earthquake-prone country globally. While extraordinary efforts were demonstrated in the immediate aftermath of the disaster—by security agencies, local organisations, and citizens alike—the reconstruction drive has faced significant challenges. Political interventions and irregularities have left many projects in limbo, underscoring the need for improved governance and transparency.

Prime Minister Oli acknowledged these efforts and challenges, stating, “We have shown extraordinary reconstruction efforts at such times. At that time, for the search and rescue, relief distribution, our security agencies, various organisations, and locals themselves had shown resilience and were exceptional.”

Commemorations Across Kathmandu

The anniversary was commemorated under the theme “Let’s build safe infrastructure, let’s stay safe from earthquakes.” A candlelight vigil organised at Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drew locals, conservationists, and foreign dignitaries in tribute to those who perished.

Lights were lit on the steps of the temple at the square, honouring the victims and preserving the memory of structures such as Hanumandhoka Durbar Square that were severely damaged in the earthquake.

Ganapati Lal Shrestha, a participant in the vigil, spoke about the collective grief and remembrance. “Ten years ago, the devastating earthquake caused severe damage to the structures of the nation’s identity, Hanumandhoka Durbar Square, and some were trapped beneath the rubble, and many others perished here. It is a collective commemoration for those who lost their lives across the nation in the Gorkha Earthquake; we gathered here to pray for the departed souls and their eternal peace, one decade since the tragedy,” Shrestha said.

Reflecting on Resilience and the Future

The earthquake underscored the importance of investing in resilient infrastructure and preparedness to mitigate future disasters. Events such as candlelight vigils provide solace to those who mourn the loss of loved ones and offer hope for a safer, more united Nepal.

Nepal’s decade-long recovery has been a story of resilience, reflecting the determination of its people to rebuild lives and preserve the nation’s identity. As the nation moves forward, the lessons of 2015 remain central to its journey toward safety and sustainable development.