(VOVworld) – The death toll in Nepal devastating earthquake last week has risen to 6,204, the Interior Ministry said in its latest update on Friday, adding that a further 13,400 people were injured in the 7.8-magnitude quake.

People carry the body of a victim on a stretcher, which was trapped in the debris after an earthquake hit, in Kathmandu, Nepal April 25, 2015. (Photo: Reuters)

In Sinddhupalchowk, the worst hit district, alone, 1,820 people were confirmed dead.

General Gaurav Rana, who is leading the nationwide rescue effort, predicted that the death toll may rise to 15,000. Nepal police said 290,000 houses were damaged by the disaster. Heavy downpour and aftershocks measuring from 3.9 to 4.7 on the Richter scale are hindering rescue operation and recovery effort.

Nepal’s national radio has reported that the government will provide 1,000 USD in immediate assistance to the families of those killed and 400 USD for cremation or burial.

Nepal Rashtriya Bank, the central bank of Nepal, has ordered private banks to open for several hours this weekend to meet people’s demand for cash needed to cover current difficulties.