News

British Embassy in Kathmandu reinforced after quake

UK contractor Gilbert-Ash has finished a £1m fit out project on the British Embassy compound in earthquake-hit Kathmandu, Nepal.

In the wake of the 2015 Gorkha earthquake, which killed 9,000 people, the 22-week project included design, fit-out and seismic reinforcement.

Nepal has been rebuilding since the devastating earthquake, which caused widespread structural damage.

Belfast-headquartered Gilbert-Ash worked with local structural engineers for whom earthquakes are a common occurrence.

The company noted that women are taking up prominent roles in construction since the earthquake due to a local labour shortage caused by men working in the Middle East.

"It was really incredible to see so many in the workforce in Nepal who are playing such a key role in rebuilding the country," said Ian Fisher, contracts manager.

He added: "This was a humbling project as our team saw first-hand the impact of the 2015 earthquake on the everyday lives of the people in Nepal. The local response to the earthquake to rebuild their country has been inspiring and we are pleased to have supported the recovery efforts."

He said the project was "complex due to its location".

Gilbert-Ash has done work for the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office in 41 countries to date.

Image: Buildings damaged in Nepal after the 2015 earthquake (Krish Dulal/Wikimedia Commons)

Story for GCR? Get in touch via email: [email protected]

Latest articles in News