Quake hits a big blow to Nepal, tourism

Earthquakes are always devastating causing massive loss to property and lives. Today’s earthquake in Nepal  has caused catastrophic damage to country’s infrastructure and this couldn’t have happened at a more worst time when huge tourism season was just round the corner. Many tourists have been injured, killed or trapped in today’s earthquake.

Initial reports say that up to 400 people, many are expected to be tourists wanting to enjoy a panoramic view of the Kathmandu valley are currently trapped when the Dharahara Tower or Bhimsen Tower collapsed. It was a nine storey (61.88m) tall tower at the center of Kathmandu. It is a part of Architecture of Kathmandu recognized by UNESCO. It was built in 1832 by the Prime Minister of the time, Bhimsen Thapa of Nepal. The tower had a spiral staircase containing 213 steps. The 8th floor held a circular balcony for observers. Similar damage has been reported from temple town of Patan near Kathmandu.

Video shows Kathmandu temples are destroyed by the earthquake. A second 6.5 earthquake was recorded minutes ago by USGS followed the 7.9 hit Kathmandu, Nepal earlier. An avalanches was reported in the Mount Everest region after the quake. More reports are coming in by the minute reporting Apartment blocks damaged and casualties reported. The situation in Kathmandu appears to be chaotic.

Reports have also started pouring in of damages in other parts of the region. Tibet has suffered extensive damage. Even in India major pilgrimage tourism centres such as Ayodhya and Kushinagar in UP have gone through destruction.

Nepal was full of tourists all around the world, getting ready for the big Everest season. Besides Nepal in general and Kathmandu and Pokhara in particular are also very popular among Indian tourists as summer destinations.