The DART returns home from humanitarian assistance mission in Nepal

News Release

May 31, 2015
Department of National Defence
Ottawa, ON

More than 100 members of Canada’s Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) returned to CFB Trenton today after the completion of their deployment to Nepal to provide humanitarian assistance following the earthquake that hit the country on 25 April.

Recent on-the-ground assessments by the Government of Canada, including members of the DART, the Government of Nepal, and the United Nations indicate that immediate basic needs of the affected population are being provided by the Government of Nepal, local authorities and experienced civilian partners.

In a short period of time, Canada’s DART provided significant support to relief efforts led by the Government of Nepal, and contributed to various humanitarian activities underway by international partners.

Quick Facts

On April 26, 2015, the Government of Canada deployed elements of the DART to Nepal in a phased approach, adjusting capabilities and personnel based on needs on the ground.
The DART is a vital asset in Canada’s response to natural disasters abroad, specifically in meeting three critical needs: water purification; primary medical care; and engineering help.
On May 28, the Government of Canada announced that the DART is drawing down from Nepal. As basic needs of the affected population are being met by the Government of Nepal, local authorities and capable civilian partners, the DART contribution is no longer required.
The DART treated more than 700 Nepalese patients; distributed 75 water filtration units; enabled access to clean safe drinking water for approximately 3,400 people; provided 750 maps and imagery products to the Nepalese and foreign militaries, NGOs and UN agencies; removed more than 3,000 cubic meters of rubble and cleared roads allowing access to approximately 204,000 Nepalese; enabled more than 300 public safety announcements; and, dispersed more than 355 crank radios to connect remote communities with relief efforts.
As part of the Government of Canada initiative led by Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD), the CAF are reducing its personnel and equipment.
DART will re-deploy in phases, with all DART personnel are expected to be back in Canada by June 6, 2015.

Quotes

“The Canadian Armed Forces promptly responded to the disaster in Nepal with unique expertise and essential resources to assist in relief efforts there. Now, DART members are returning home after a job well done, something all Canadians can be proud of.”
Jason Kenney, Minister of National Defence