Post Earthquake Livelihood Support Project

Nepal witnessed a major earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 on 25 April 2015 and experienced profound national setback, both in terms of loss of lives as well as destruction of infrastructure. About 9000 people died while the figure for animals remained unidentified. Gorkha district was one of the severely affected areas which experienced multiple aftershocks leaving residents living in constant fear and despair. The extent of the impact extended beyond the obvious loss of life and properties as means of livelihood were wiped out and the communities were in no position to sustain themselves through the distressing periods let alone recover and rehabilitate. Immediate aid and rescue operations came from all over the world. However, it gradually started to evaporate and investment for reconstruction and livelihood rehabilitation were limited, most of which were beyond the reach of the marginalized communities.

AHTCS, with financial support from BOTHAR, Ireland, endorsed the Post-Earthquake Livelihood Support Project for the victims of Dalit communities of Chhoprak, Gorkha.

Major Interventions and Impact:

1. Distribution of improved species of goat and swine to 32 affected households as well as material support for shed construction to support their livelihood
2. 4 professionals were provided with blacksmith’s equipment to help them recover and resume their businesses
3. Conducted Animal health camp: More than 300 goats and 90 cattle received general health checkups and need-based medical care
4. Fodder plants were distributed to 32 households to ensure the availability of quality green fodder for the animals
5. Various livestock enterprise training sessions were conducted for farmers including Goat Raising, Shed Management, and Forage and Fodder Production training to ensure adoption of improved husbandry practices as well as encourage and provide farmers with income generation opportunities
6. Orientation was provided to communities on emergency preparedness and various phases of Disaster Reduction and Management