Nepal unveils Rs 559 billion reconstruction plan for flood recovery

The government of Nepal has unveiled a Rs 559.17 billion reconstruction and rehabilitation plan following the devastating floods in the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli river system on August 26. Prime Minister Balendra Shah recommended the budget for 504 specific projects during the 21st meeting of the National Council for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management.

The disaster has resulted in 1,386 deaths, with more than 4,000 people reported missing and approximately 1.6 million people affected. A Rapid Disaster Needs Assessment (RDNA) indicates that roughly 33,000 individuals have lost their homes.

Recovery efforts face significant challenges, including the destruction of road and bridge networks, economic hubs, and agricultural land. Experts emphasize that successful reconstruction must prioritize the restoration of connected services, livelihoods, and the rights of affected communities, including Indigenous Peoples, to avoid the pitfalls seen during post-2015 earthquake resettlement efforts.