Nepal: International Charter activated for landslides

On 5 August 2014 the International Charter: Space and Major Disasters was activated at the request of Asia Disaster Reduction Center (ADRC) on behalf of UN-SPIDER's Regional Support Office, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). The reason of the activation is a landslide in the Sindhupalchowk District of Nepal which occurred on 2 August due to heavy rains.

Authorities confirmed that ten people died, 159 are reported missing and dozens of houses were destroyed. Emergency workers and soldiers are working together and have been cutting temporary routes through the debris. The landslide has blocked part of the Araniko Highway and part of Sunkoshi River forming a growing lake. Due to concerns over the potential flood, 100,000 people were evacuated into neighbouring India, while in Nepal the army has been clearing debris on the river making drop the water level.

Satellite-based products and maps created through the mechanism will be published on the International Charter's website as soon as they become available.