"I vividly recall the terror as my own home trembled, trapping us inside until we could force our way out into the uncertain night. Though my family escaped physical harm, the emotional toll was significant, compounded by the injuries my father sustained while salvaging what little we could. The harrowing experience left us grappling with immense human suffering and loss. Lives were abruptly disrupted, dreams shattered, and the aftermath still lingers vividly in our memories.”
Nepali citizens have repeatedly endured the tragedy of natural disasters. From the perennial flooding in the Terai region to landslides in the hills and devastating earthquakes. Such calamities have become a familiar ordeal for both Nepalis and our national media. Whether it be the devastating 2015 earthquake claiming over seven thousand lives or the more recent Jajarkot earthquake in November 2023, which resulted in the loss of over 150 lives and left thousands of households affected, these events underscore Nepal's vulnerability to nature's wrath.
The importance of communication during natural disasters cannot be overstated. By harnessing the power of communication, we can empower communities to navigate the complexities of natural disasters and emerge stronger together.
She remembers being trapped inside the rubble of her home resulting from the recent earthquake. In the wake of such calamities, the importance of disseminating accurate information cannot be overstated. During disasters, the dissemination of accurate information becomes paramount. However, the lack of credible sources often leads to chaos and disinformation, exacerbating the already challenging situation.
Particularly, in remote regions where resources and infrastructures are already limited, the challenges of gathering and disseminating accurate information get more challenging during times of disasters. Local media may lack the infrastructures and trained personnel to cover the aftermath, leaving locals with even fewer reliable sources of information. In the aftermath, while people wait for the requisite help to reach them, the public turns to media, and media cannot turn their attention away from them.
The community radios, despite all the preexisting challenges further heightened by disasters, rose to fulfill their indispensable duties to the community and the people. Their duties extend beyond informing about the ordeals but keeping communication, a lifeline in place between the affected and the world outside. Rescue operations, relief initiatives, sanitation, healthcare, resource mobilization, to raising awareness, providing emotional and mental support to the public on preparedness, and more. Media’s role is endless.
The aftermath of the earthquake also saw an increased demand for guidance and support from our listeners. They turned to our radio station seeking information on how to navigate the challenges ahead and expressed their gratitude for our assistance, further strengthening the bond between us.
Gopal and his team addressed the immediate needs and concerns of the people immediately after the earthquake through their radio program, ‘Bhukampa Bikash’ and ‘Jeevan Rakshiya’. Such radio programs not only provided information to their listeners but also became a platform for people to share their experiences, further providing support to deal with their woes mentally/emotionally.
It is crucial that the local media houses are well capacitated to act during such difficult times. Well-resourced media houses and trained journalists play a vital role in the aftermath of disasters, providing the affected with the information to access immediate resources such as relief materials, for responders, to locate the most affected and for organizations working in a similar area and government, with the necessary information to strategically channel their resources.
Saru Basnat, Radio Prithibi, Jajarkot explains, “During times of crisis, the role and responsibility of journalists and the media towards the public and society become more pronounced. Their role is crucial in safeguarding the public interest and holding the government and authorities accountable. This is why a strong and influential medium like radio is essential to amplify the direct voice of the people and to ensure accountability from the government and authorities.”
“Consequently, our responsibility appears to have intensified during such times. As allies of the people's voice, journalists and community radios bear increased responsibility in this period,” adds Basnet emphasizing the community radio’s role.
“Despite operating from a makeshift tent and facing various obstacles, including shortages of essential equipment like mixers and microphones, we remained steadfast in our commitment. In the midst of this crisis, our role as a community radio became even more apparent,” says Oli recalling their efforts of not just informing people about the initiatives taken by various entities but about actively reaching out to ensure that no one felt overlooked.
Acknowledging the undisputed role of information and communication during the time of disaster, 91鶹Ʒ been actively supporting in enabling media and journalists in crisis reporting. In the similar vein, community radios have been serving communities across Nepal as the main source of information, especially in remote places like Jajarkot. Community radio, aside from many as the main information source, also provides a platform for community empowerment and development. Their roles escalate during the time of crisis. Hence, to support the continuity of community radio stations in Jajarkot, UNESCO provided radio equipment right after the earthquake.
“In reflection, our journey through the earthquake aftermath underscores the vital role of community radios in times of crisis. It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to serving our community and ensuring that no voice goes unheard.”
