The months of April and May 2015 saw one of the darkest days in Nepal’s history. Many of us know about the earthquake that killed around 9,000 people, destroyed roads and left at least 3.5 million others homeless.
Many of the country’s most prized historic and holy structures, including UNESCO heritage sites such as Kathmandu Durbar Square and structures within the Swayambhu Monument Zone, were also badly damaged. Nepal has consistently experienced tremors since then, which have led to further destruction.
In a country with poverty levels already among the highest in the world, the disaster pushed nearly a million people further into destitution.
Since then, efforts have been on to rebuild Nepal.
Even in the face of disaster, Nepal did not lose its character or the hardworking essence of its people. Even before there was any hint of external aid, the people of Nepal got to work. Brick by brick they began to rebuild, staring into the face of destruction and declaring a future filled with hope.
Over the past couple of years, only 20% of the houses eligible to be rebuilt with government grants have been completed, but work is now underway on more than 60% of them. In Sindhupalchowk, virtually every street is now a busy work site.
Yet, citizens have picked up the pieces and carried on, whether through equanimity or sheer composure, after enduring years of turbulence and uncertainty.
The people exhibit a strong will and a determined heart. Their energy and zeal in the face of adversity are astounding. Even among the stones and the rubble, one can witness the spirit of the Nepalese people, many of them smiling as they sit atop their broken houses.
The Nepal Tourism Board beckons travellers to return with the slogan, "Once is not enough.". People in Nepal say that you come to the mountains and you stay for the people, and that really is true.
In spite of the gross horror Nepal faced, it has remained resilient. There's still the Himalayan culture – the blend of Buddhism and Hinduism that people are fascinated by. There's still the incredible Himalayas, the trails, the welcoming people.
Nepal is not a country that indulges its wounds. Through it all, the smiles and the welcome have remained. Unity has taken hold of the country’s citizens in a powerful way. They stand together, strong and ready, for they have learned that it is the only way they can rebuild their nation. The future indeed looks promising for this alluring country.
Seeing is believing, and you have to visit Nepal to witness that things have bounced back. Everything is not fixed, however, the mountains and monuments of Nepal mostly stand strong, as do the people.
