Community-based initiatives in Kathmandu Valley: Pioneers in earthquake mitigation and preparedness

Is Nepal prepared for an earthquake? Probably not. Since the last major quake that devastated most of Nepal struck in 1934, many people have closed their eyes to its potential fury. “We have many other urgent matters to worry about” is the common response whenever earthquakes are discussed. But in fact, it is an urgent matter as geological experts show evidence that an earthquake is long overdue in Nepal. Roger Bilham of the University of Colorado, USA, confirmed that a big quake should have struck Nepal around 1984, fifty years from the last big one. Some non-governmental and community-based organizations have acted on this word and taken the lead in re-awakening the people of Kathmandu Valley to earthquake risks.