Purne's story: From Rubble to Recovery
Purne was at home with his wife, Lila, when the earthquake struck. In November 2023, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Nepal, leaving a trail of devastation, particularly in remote districts like Jajarkot and Rukum West.
"We were scared to death when the ground started to shake," recalls Purne, who has faced mobility, hearing, and speech impairments since birth. "I thought we both will die as I did not have faith in myself to pull my disabled wife out of the rubble."
Despite his disabilities, Purne and Lila managed to escape the crumbling house, but the destruction was immense. Their home, along with all their possessions, was buried beneath the rubble. With limited resources and no immediate way to rebuild, they faced the harsh reality of living in a tent exposed to the cold winter air.
With the support of the Government of Canada through the Humanitarian Coalition, our member Plan International Canada immediately recognized the immense need, responding immediately through Plan International with a cash-for-work program and essential relief items such as tarpaulins, blankets, and kitchen supplies.
For Purne, these items were a lifeline.
"It was such a relief for us to receive the items. I could save my wife from the cold. Immediately we set up the tent in the field, changed our muddy clothes to warm ones, and used the plates, spoons, and cups to eat warm food," he explains.
Like many in the region, Purne had previously relied on family for support. His nephew Kushal, who had always been a pillar for him, was also affected by the disaster. Kushal's home was destroyed, leaving him unable to offer the assistance he once could.
"My uncle has no children," said Kushal. "I am his sole support, like a son to him. The earthquake destroyed my home, so I couldn't help him as much as I wanted to."
Amid recovery, however, hope came through the efforts of Plan International Canada. Plan International helped Purne and his nephew Kushal apply for assistance to build temporary shelters. Within weeks, construction materials like corrugated sheets and toilet pans were provided, and local masons were hired to help construct the shelter. Technicians from Plan International Nepal visited regularly, ensuring the building process was smooth and efficient. In just 45 days, Purne and Lila moved into their new temporary home, which included two rooms, a kitchen, and an improved toilet.
"My uncle has the biggest smile on his face now that the shelter is built. He keeps gesturing, asking me when we'll move in," Kushal says.
"I opened my first bank account to receive support from the organization," says Purne. "Once the shelter and toilet were completed, the funds were deposited. I used part of the money to cover the labour costs and will use the rest for my wife's medication."
For now, the new shelter offers more than just protection--it brings hope for a more stable future after this terrible loss.