Summary
The flooding in Nepal has been significantly exacerbated by unplanned urban development around the Bagmati River, leading to severe consequences during the monsoon season. This development has contributed to increased vulnerability to floods and landslides, resulting in substantial loss of life and property.
Recent heavy rains have caused devastating floods and landslides across Nepal, with the capital Kathmandu being particularly hard hit. The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development has identified that haphazard urbanization, including encroachment on floodplains and inadequate drainage systems, has compounded the impact of these natural disasters. The Bagmati River, which flows through Kathmandu, has seen its banks breached due to excessive rainfall, with water levels rising significantly above danger marks. As a result, entire neighborhoods have been inundated, leading to casualties and widespread destruction.
Contributing Factors
- Urban Encroachment: Rapid and unregulated urban development around the Bagmati River has reduced natural water retention areas, increasing flood risks.
- Poor Drainage: The lack of effective drainage systems in many parts of Kathmandu has amplified the effects of heavy rainfall, leading to severe flooding.
- Climate Change: Experts note that climate change has intensified the frequency and severity of monsoon rains, further straining Nepal’s infrastructure.
Recent Events
In late September 2024, heavy rains resulted in at least 193 deaths, with many more missing, as search and rescue operations intensified. The Nepalese government has responded by closing schools in affected areas and mobilizing rescue teams to assist those stranded by landslides and flooding. The situation has highlighted the urgent need for improved urban planning and infrastructure investments to mitigate future disasters.
The ongoing challenges in Nepal serve as a stark reminder of the intersection between environmental issues and urban development, necessitating a reevaluation of planning practices to enhance resilience against natural disasters.
Nepal surveys damage after deadly floods kill at least 193 people
Sep. 30 / Al Jazeera / Recovery efforts in Nepal are vividly captured, with a strong focus on the human toll and the impact of climate change, while also highlighting the urgent need for improved urban planning around the Bagmati River. The piece effectively underscores the intersection of environmental issues and urban development, providing a compelling narrative that resonates with ongoing challenges in the region. “ In Pictures Recovery and rescue work has stepped up, with casualty numbers pushing towards 200. Search and rescue teams in Nepal’s capital have been picking...
Nepal closes schools as heavy rains kill more than 150
Sep. 29 / Nbc News / The report provides critical insights into the immediate effects of the flooding, emphasizing the closure of schools and the struggles faced by residents, while also calling attention to the need for better infrastructure and planning. It offers a clear perspective on the contributing factors behind the disaster, making it a valuable resource for understanding the broader implications of unplanned urbanization in Nepal. “ Nepal has shut schools for three days after landslides and floods triggered by two days of heavy rain across the Himalayan nation killed 151 people, with 56...