On April 25 and May 12, 2015, Nepal was hit by two earthquakes, causing over 8,500 deaths and injuring more than 100,000 people; 39 of the 75 districts of Nepal were affected, including 14 severely.
The Architectes de l'Urgence Foundation arrived in Nepal on April 25, 2015, and carried out an initial evaluation phase, consisting of appraising several dozen buildings in various districts of Nepal, including some twenty schools in the Nepal Valley of Kathmandu. Today, the implementation of a real reconstruction strategy for both public buildings and housing is underway by Nepalese institutions, supported by international organizations.
The Fondation Architectes de l'Urgence has focused its action on two main areas: reconstruction of schools; and setting up construction training centers.
Rehabilitation of Nava Prativa School
This school welcomes 350 students from 3 to 16 years old. One of its buildings, which was built with bricks and mud, was destroyed by the earthquake. The school was rebuilt in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The project was launched in 2015 and finished in November 2016.
Reconstruction of Dhading and Ramechhap districts’ schools
Benefiting 1600 pupils, this reconstruction will be implemented by training people in earthquake-resistant construction, resulting in increased economic activity and a reduction in risks from future disasters.
Training and Model Houses Project in Nuwakot and Rasuwa
A local housing evaluation was done by a French architect specialized in the rehabilitation of historic buildings. The goal was to develop an inventory of traditional architecture in Nepal. This mission served as the starting point for the first housing project in the districts of Nuwakot and Rasuwa, northwest of Kathmandu. This project will train 600 people in the construction of two model houses designed by the Foundation based on the traditional architecture of the region.
Credits:
- Fondation Architectes de l'Urgence / Emergency Architects - Director - Patrick Coulombel
- ABVENT - CEO - Xavier Soule