Kathmandu: The police have confirmed that the death toll from the earthquake that struck Jajarkot-Rukum West on Friday night has reached 143.

According to the Police Headquarters, 143 bodies have been recovered in Jajarkot, while the collection of 38 bodies is possible in Rukum West.

In addition, there are 81 injured in Jajarkot and 85 in Rukum West, totaling 166.

Nepal Police, Nepali Army, and Armed Police Force teams are being deployed to search and rescue those trapped within the affected structures by the earthquake.

The situation in the affected areas is being assessed, and medical treatment is being provided by local health organizations in Surkhet and Nepalgunj. Some seriously injured individuals are also being transported to Kathmandu.

The mountainous regions with difficult access, vulnerable building structures, road, and communication issues are creating challenges in both relief and rescue efforts.