Nepal earthquake: Before and after photographs reveal the devastation on iconic landmarks from Everest to Kathmandu
Version 0 of 1. Photographs have emerged showing the devastation wrecked on Nepal’s heritage by the 7.8 earthquake on Sunday. As the death toll continues to rise, with the latest figures placing the number of dead at almost 4,000, images show that among the casualties of the natural disaster are the nation’s cultural landmarks. One of Nepal’s most popular tourist landmarks, the Dharahara Tower, has been felled. Built by Nepal’s first Prime Minister at the beginning of the 19th century, the Dharahara Tower had dominated the skyline of capital city Kathmandu. The temple in Durbar Square, Kathmandu, a UNESCO World Heritage site labelled the “social, religious and urban focal point” of the city, has been partially demolished. Another square in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur – also a UNESCO site – appeared to have been partially destroyed by the quake. Everest Base Camp 1 has been entirely covered by an avalanche – believed to be the worst ever experienced on the mountain. 17 people have died, but authorities admit that number could rise as rescue efforts reach the mountain. Meanwhile, aid agencies have reported that assistance is arriving in the capital city with India, China, Israel, the United States and the UK all pledging money, personnel or medical supplies. |