A year ago today, a magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck Nepal, with aftershocks following for months. Thousands of people were killed and millions left homeless. In the popular tourist country, many ancient architectures and art works were destroyed. One year on, people are still struggling with inadequate restoration and public services.

People light up candles to commemorate the people who died in the earthquake a year ago, at Durbar Square in Kathmandu, capital of Nepal, on April 24, 2016. [Photo: Xinhua/Cheong Kam Ka]

Hundreds of people gathered in front of the old royal palace in Kathmandu, to mourn the victims, on the eve of the first anniversary of the massive earthquake.

“One year ago today, Nepali people had faced a very difficult situation . We are so lucky that today we are lighting the tea lights and our lives are running smoothly,” said local resident Sugarika KC.

This square is a symbol of Nepal’s history and culture. Once filled with tourists from across the world, it is now left with ruined buildings and grief. But the grief is not always quiet. Hours before, around 100 protesters clashed with the police. They were marching towards government offices, demanding faster reconstruction efforts.

“My family and I are still sleeping under tents here in Kathmandu. I would like to go back to my village, but landslides are still happening. Where can we go? We are all staying here trying to make ends meet somehow,” survivor Chhuldim Samden said.

The same day, Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli also paid homage to the victims. Oli along with other dignitaries observed a minute’s silence and prayed for the departed souls to rest in peace. He lit a wreath at the ruins of the Dharahara Tower, where 132 people perished.