Nepal’s capital Kathmandu was devastated by record-breaking floods last week, resulting in over 200 deaths and extensive damage to homes in the Kathmandu valley. Experts are debating the cause of the deadly flooding, with some citing climate change as a factor, while others point to unchecked urban encroachment around the Bagmati river.
Following the deluge that saw 240mm of rain over four days, recovery efforts by the police, paramilitary forces, and the army in Nepal have been intensified. However, damaged infrastructure and blocked roads are posing challenges to rescue operations.
The severe flooding has been attributed to a combination of factors, including unplanned urbanization and deforestation. Urban planner Neeraj Dangol highlighted how haphazard development projects have encroached upon the natural river system, leading to a lack of drainage and increased vulnerability to floods.
As Nepal’s population continues to grow, the need for improved urban planning and infrastructure upgrades is crucial to mitigate the impact of future disasters. Experts emphasize the importance of incorporating sustainable practices in construction, enhancing early warning systems, and increasing awareness among vulnerable communities.
While climate change is recognized as a contributing factor to the heightened frequency and intensity of floods in Nepal, experts caution against solely blaming it for the disaster. Instead, a holistic approach that integrates sustainable development practices and community engagement is essential to building resilience against future water-induced disasters.
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