Earthquake Damage Assessment, Nepal
Country-wide / Nepal
Why this project matters
In April 2015, Nepal was struck by a devastating earthquake that left widespread destruction in its wake, particularly across remote mountain regions. Schools and health posts - critical to community wellbeing - were among the most severely affected. Article 25 partnered with Community Action Nepal to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the structural damage and to provide a path toward safe, resilient rebuilding.
The design
The assessment focused on ten mountainous locations across eastern, central, and western Nepal. Article 25 developed a set of practical recommendations for reconstructing schools and clinics, combining earthquake-resilient design with contextually appropriate facilities - especially those that could support girls staying in school into secondary education. The proposals referenced both stringent New Zealand seismic codes and traditional Nepali techniques, such as timber bands and cross frames used in masonry buildings.
Impact and delivery
The resulting report offered local and international stakeholders a roadmap to rebuild stronger, safer, and more inclusive educational and healthcare infrastructure. It bridged global engineering standards with local building practices, ensuring both resilience and cultural continuity. The work has informed future reconstruction efforts across Nepal, contributing to safer learning and healthcare environments in vulnerable communities.
PROJECT TYPE: Expertise
PARTNERS: Community Action Nepal
STATUS: Assessment Report published
