I am sure that you will be aware of the major earthquake and ongoing aftershocks in Nepal and the surrounding areas. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.
On 25 April, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale, struck about 80 km north-west of Kathmandu, Nepal. Tremors have been felt across the region, as far as Pakistan, Bangladesh and India. According to news reports, the death toll has risen to above 3,000 and scores of casualties. Several aftershocks continue to hit the area causing disruption to essential services like evacuation and medical aid.
Global WorkPlace Solutions (GWS) is the managing agent for Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) account in Nepal. Our leadership in India, working with our Environment, Health and Safety team have been supporting disaster relief planning and are in regular contact with their SCB counterparts to assess the wellbeing of staff and the extent of damage. Due to damaged phone lines and disrupted power supply, contact is taking longer than anticipated. SCB staff have been advised to stay outdoors, remain alert by following the advice of local authorities and to choose safe drinking water and food.
In India, many cities reported feeling the tremors following the earthquake. GWS employees are safe and no casualties have been reported. While minor structural cracks have been reported at some client sites, these will be assessed to determine the extent and resolution.
Whilst we are not aware of any direct staff effected by these tragic events, I am sure there are many worried for friends and family members. We will continue to support the relief efforts led by our team in India.
You are advised to defer all travels to Nepal until further notice. We will continue to keep you updated with the current situation in Nepal and the surrounding countries.
Best,
Mike
Mike Runicles
VP & GM, Asia Pacific
Global WorkPlace Solutions
Johnson Controls