Death toll soars to over 5 000 in Nepal quake

Kathmandu - The death toll from the powerful earthquake in Nepal has climbed to 5 489, with a total of 10 965 people injured, the Home Ministry said on Thursday.

Sindhupalchowk is the worst-hit district with 1 587 people killed after the 7.9-magnitude quake hit Nepal on Saturday, according to the National Emergency Operation Centre under the ministry.

Some 13 4864 houses were destroyed and 92 971 were damaged, said the Home Ministry.

Meanwhile, members of South African humanitarian aid group Gift of the Givers are on the ground in Nepal helping with rescue efforts. - SAnews.gov.za-Xinhua