Working Together for a Risk Resilient Nepal

Design, layout & production by PowerComm, 5552987

This DRR Tool Kit for Constituent Assembly members is
produced jointly by the following organizations,
with funding support of
European Commission Humanitarian Aid department
(through DIPECHO V partnersActionAid with AusAID
co-finance, Care Nepal, Handicap International,
Mercy Corps, Practical Action and
UNDPBCPR South and SouthWest Asia), Oxfam GB,
United Nations Development Program Nepal and
Association of International NGOs, Nepal.
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AN INFORMATION PACK FOR
CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY
MEMBERS OF NEPAL
Reduction
Disaster
Risk
Toolkit
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European Commission Humanitarian Aid
department
The European Commissions Humanitarian Aid
department is under the direct responsibility of
Commissioner Louis Michel. Since 1992, the
Commission has funded relief to millions of victims
of natural and man-made disasters outside the
European Union.
Aid is channelled impartially to the affected
populations, regardless of their race, ethnic group,
religion, gender, age, nationality or political affiliation.
In the area of humanitarian aid, the Commission
works with 200 operational partners, including
specialised United Nation agencies, the Red
Cross/Crescent movement and non-governmental
organisations (NGOs). The European Commission
is one of the biggest sources of humanitarian aid in
the world. In 2007, it provided over 768 million Euros
for humanitarian projects. This does not include the
aid given separately by the EUs 25 Member States.
Support went to projects in (number) countries.
The funds are spent on goods and services such
as food, clothing, shelter, medical provisions, water
supplies, sanitation, emergency repairs and mine-
clearing.
The Commission also funds disaster preparedness
and mitigation projects in regions prone to natural
catastrophes. Under department of Disaster
Preparedness (DIPECHO), the European
Commissions Humanitarian Aid department has
been supporting a number of disaster preparedness
initiatives in South Asia, including Nepal.
For more information, please visit official website of European Commission at www.ec.europa.eu

Of 198 countries in the

world, Nepal is ranked 11
th

in terms of earthquake
risk and 30
th
in terms of
water-induced disaster risk
(UN/BCPR, 2004)

Nepal is highly vulnerable

to a variety of disasters
likefood,landslide,
earthquake,re,epidemic,
and climate change
impact, etc.

Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), avalenches, industrial and

transport accident, environmental pollution, pesticides related
accidents etc. are contributing to disaster vulnerability in Nepal.

A recent report of Department of Epidemelogy and Disease

Control, Nepal shows that 346 people died and 62,016 people
were directly by diarrheal epidemic that spread over 20 districts
of far and mid-western Nepal since 2008.
Global Rank in Water Induced
Disasters Risk
Global Rank in
Earthquake Risk
30
th
11
th
Disaster Situation in Nepal
Living under constant
threat of disasters,
we Nepalese people
have to ensure a risk
resilient country to
ensure our right to
lead a secure life...

recent diarrhea
affected death
recent diarrhea
affected people
346
62,016
death due to
disasters,
every year
NPR, economic
loss per year
1,000
1,20,80,00,000
Photo: ECO Nepal
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Likewise,globalepidemicslikeBirdFlu(AvianInfuenza)
and Swine Flu (H1N1) are already affecting the local
population.

Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) report indicates that

every year, more than 1,000 people die due to disasters.
According to DisInventar Database, on an average over two
persons die everyday because of disasters, 200 everyday are
affected.

From 1971 to 2007, over 1,33,000 people were affected

every year by disasters... over 9,350 houses were destroyed
every year (MoHA)

MoHA report shows that economic loss due to disasters is

NPR 1.2 billion a year.

German Watch Index, 2006 states that Nepal is ranked

6th in terms of vulnerability due climate change induced
hazards.

Nepals average temperature is increasing rapidly compared

to global average in global warming. If the current trend
of rising temperature continues, three-fourth of Nepals
3,000+ glacial lakes will dwindle by 2030 due to premature
meltdown.

ICIMOD assessment illustrates that of the 2323 glacial lakes

of Nepal, 20 are potentially dangerous and can result in
Glacier Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF).

EntireNepalsonhighseismicactivezoneindicating
impending high intensity earthquake anytime. According to
various studies, among the major 200 cities of the world,
Kathmandu valley is extremely vulnerable to earthquake and
can result in mass scale destruction of lives and property.

The joint study report of MoHA and JICA (Japan

International Coorporation Agency), 2002 estimates that
if an earthquake of intensity equivalent to 8.4 Richter scale
strikes Kathmandu valley (compared to 1934 earthquake),
40,000 people may lose life;
95,000 people are likely to be injured and over 60 percent
of the buildings will collapse.

The frequency, intensity and impact of disasters is on the

rise...
According to various
studies, among the
major 200 cities of
the world, Kathmandu
valley is extremely
vulnerable to
earthquake and can
result in mass scale
destruction of lives
and property.

Photo: Co Action Nepal

Photo: ISET-N

Nepal is highly vulnerable to disaster risks.

The country lags in its capacity to cope with
disasters and major disaster events can wreck
havoc to the future of Nepal. There is a need to
strengthen the policy and legislation on disaster
management,
emphasizing
on holistic risk
reduction measures
through clear
emphasis on
various stages
of disaster risk
management cycle.
Disaster Management
Legislation:
Need for Revision
Previous experiences have given ample
evidence that preparedness measures
can reduce disaster losses drastically. (In
Bangladesh, the cycle of 1970 killed
500,000 people while only 4,000 life
losses were reported due to 2009 cyclone.
Reason is the comprehensive cyclone
preparedness program in Bangladesh
since early 90s).
The Natural Calamity (Relief) Act of 1982,
amended twice in 1989 and 1992 is more
response oriented. The existing legislation has
been found to be inadequate to address rights
Experiences have
proved that disaster
preparedness can reduce
90% of human losses.
One rupee invested in
preparedness can save
seven rupees at times of
mass casualties.
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Natural Calamity
(Relief) Act of 1982,
though amended twice
is has not served its purpose
in ensuring rights of disaster affected
and disaster vulnerable people. In its current
form, it is inadequate to address comprehensive risk
reduction framework. A revision to the existing legal
provisions is imperative now
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of disaster affected or disaster vulnerable
people. Three is a need for immediate
revision of the existing legal provisions to
ensure holistic risk management policies
and systems giving adequate emphasis
on all stages of disaster risk management
cycle from preparedness to sustainable
development.
The state must ensure that people with
disabilities as well as other differentially
vulnerable people are consulted and included
in all aspects of society, ensuring equal
opportunities in private and public life.
Inclusion of differentially vulnerable people
must be a component of any decision
and action on disaster risk management at
various levels.
Disaster Impact Assessment should be
mandatory during development and
infrastructure planning, along with
environmental impact assessment.
The government should immediately address
need for stronger legislation, which has
been proposed to the government through a
multi-stakeholder initiative in 2005.
The proposed comprehensive risk reduction
framework should include, among other
provisions:
Transition from a relief centric to a risk
reduction centric approach
Elimination of knowledge gap on disaster risk
reduction in the society
Emphasis on gender and social inclusion
including people with disabilities
Efcient and effective coordination through
participation at all stages of disaster risk
reduction process
Integrating risk reduction approach into
development policies and actions
Establishment of an effective organizational
structure to facilitate quick and efcient decision
making
Integrating disaster risk reduction plans at various
levels, from local to national levels
Establishment of disaster management fund with
clear authority and guidelines
Strengthening political commitment for
comprehensive disaster risk reduction
Under aegis of the Hyogo Framework of Action
to reduce disaster risks (Nepal is a signatory to
this global framework), a National Strategy for
Disaster Risk Management was approved by
the cabinet in 2009. This strategy needs to be
followed up with appropriate policy and necessary
legislation to convert intention and strategy into
reality.
International legal
instruments and
humanitarian standards
emphasizes on right to
life with dignity during
emergencies. It underlines
the responsibility of the state
to protect and safeguard
human life and dignity.
Government of Nepal has adopted
the United Nations Convention
related the rights of people with
disabilities in 2009. Especially
the clause 11 has mentioned
that every country should
have developed all necessary
arrangement required to protect
the rights of people with disabilities
during thedisaster including
armed conict, human conict and
natural disasters.
Photo: EC
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epal
The proposed Disaster Management Act, 2009 is towards
enhancing effective management of risk reduction throughout the
disaster management cycle preparedness, mitigation, rescue and
relief, rehabilitation and recovery
The proposed Act emphasizes on protecting and securing lives
and property with emphasis on critical facilities that impact general
public and facilitates management of disasters effectively
The proposed Disaster Management Act, 2009 calls for
replacement of the existing Natural Calamity (Relief) Act, 1982
The salient features of the proposed DM Act are:

Disasters are defned distinctly as natural and human induced

Provision for National Council for Disaster Management

(NCDM) to be chaired by R. H. Prime Minister of Nepal
with clear mandate and functions, duties, responsibilities and
authority of the council.

Proposal to set up National Disaster Management Authority

(NDMA) under the NCDM, to act as the focal point for
disaster management functions in Nepal from formulation
of appropriate strategies and plans to implementation and
supervision of disaster management activities

Clarifes the role, responsibility and functions

of security forces including Nepal Army, Nepal
Police and Armed Police Force; institutions,
industrial sector and private organizations

It is very urgent to
pass out the Disaster
Management Act
to support the
implementation of National
Strategy on Disaster
Risk Management,
which supplements the
development of the
country and ensures the
rights of each individual to
safe life.
Proposed Disaster
Management Act,
2009 Key Features
Photo: ECO Nepal
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Though the proposed Disaster

Management Act, developed through a
multi-stakeholder consulting and initiative,
was submitted to the government, three
years have elapsed in the meantime. An
effective legislation and policy framework
could have guided the country to reduce
disaster impacts during this period and for
future. Lack of an effcient and sound legal
provision has resulted in the people leading
a life ridden with multiple vulnerability,
insecure from threats and unsure about
securing rights to lead a life with dignity
during disasters.
We urge the constituent assembly
members, policy makers and government
to endorse the proposed Disaster
Management Act without further delay. A
strong Nepal requires a strong disaster risk
reduction framework and it is the primary
responsibility of the state to offer such a
framework to the people of Nepal.

Emphasizes on development of
micro and macro hazard and
vulnerability maps for disaster prone
areas to inform decision makers
to address disaster risk reduction
effectively

Clarity in different approaches and

functions during the three states
- pre-disaster, during-disaster and
post-disaster

Clarity in actions and approaches

during different stages in a
disaster risk reduction cycle, from
preparedness onwards to relief,
recovery and development

Proposal for various committees

to look into and be responsible
for Preparedness, Rescue and
Relief as well as Rehabilitation and
Reconstruction; under the leadership
respective ministries including
formation of similar committees at
district and local levels
The proposed
Disaster
Management
Act, 2063 calls
for replacement
of the existing
Natural Calamity
(Relief) Act,
2032

Three years have

gone by since the
proposed Disaster
Management Act
was submitted to
the government. We
urge the constituent
assembly members,
policy makers
and government
to endorse the
proposed Disaster
Management Act,
2009 without further
delay.
Photo: UNDP-BPCR
The Government of Nepal approved the National Strategy for Disaster
Risk Management (NSDRM) 2009, paving way to address disaster
risk reduction in a comprehensive manner within overall development
framework. Guided by the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA), the
NSDRM is a step towards meeting the goals and priorities set through
HFA.
The NSDRM has an overall objective of providing direction to
integrate disaster risk reduction into national development plans and
processes.
NSDRM analyses risks and vulnerabilities of Nepal, taking note of
historic events and seeking to learn from past events. It emphasizes
on the relationship between disasters and poverty and suggests strong
risk reduction approach to insure development investments by the
government.
NSDRM is based on the spirit and principles of Total Disaster Risk
Management (TDRM) approach
National Strategy for
Disaster Risk Management, 2009

Major guiding principles of

disaster risk management
strategy:

Mainstreaming disaster risk

reduction into development
plans

Ensuring safety to life and

social security

Gender and social inclusion

Decentralized
implementation processes

Holistic risk management

approach

Safety and security to staff

and stakeholders

One window policy and

cluster based approach to
disaster management

Spirit of participatory,
interactive and coordinated
efforts to DRR
The need for
institutional
strengthening is very
important for effective
implementation of
sector approach
underlined in the
National Strategy
for Disaster Risk
Management
Women are 14
times more likely
to die of natural
disasters
Photo: ECO Nepal
Photo: Co-Action Nepal
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Sectoral Strategies for Disaster Risk
Reduction (DRR):
For disaster risk reduction and managing
preparedness, mitigation or response work for
emergency situations, different sectoral activities
are also mentioned in this strategy as per the
nature of nine sectors:

Strategy related to agriculture and food

security sector

Strategy related to health and nutrition sector

Strategy related to education sector

Strategy related to shelter, infrastructure and

physical planning sector
Photo: ECO Nepal

Strategy related to livelihood sector

Strategy related to water and sanitation

sector

Strategy related to forest and soil

conservation sectors

Strategy related to information,

communication, coordination and
management capacity sector

Strategy related to tracing, rescue and

damage assessment and need analysis
sector
Photo: Handicap International
Major strategic priorities:
Considering the Hyogo Framework for Action HFA
(2005-2015) as a guiding document, identifying the
major challenges in the Nepalese context and in the
implementation process of getting solution to them, the
major fve priority actions are defned as:

Prioritizing disaster risks mitigation at national and

local level and ensuring the management of strong
organizational structure for its
implementation,

Assessment of potential disaster

risks, identify, monitor and
enhance early-warning system

Use of knowledge, innovation

and education in order to develop
safe culture and resilience,

Reduce the factors of extended risks, and

Strengthen disaster preparedness for

effective response.
In order to achieve those priority activities,
29 strategic activities, their indicative activities
and outcomes and responsible agencies for
operation are also defned.
SUMMARY of the Hyogo Framework for Action 2005-2015:
Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters (Hyogo Framework)
I S D R
International Strategy
for Disaster Reduction
International Strategy for Disaster Reduction
DRR= disaster risk reduction
1
Strategic Goals
The integration of disaster risk reduction into
sustainable development policies and planning
Development and strengthening of institutions,
mechanisms and capacities to build resilience to
hazards
The systematic incorporation of risk reduction
approaches into the implementation of emergency
preparedness, response and recovery programmes
Priorities for Action
Cross Cutting Issues

Risk assessments and maps,

multi-risk: elaboration and
dissemination
Indicators on DRR and vulnerability
Data & statistical loss information
Early warning: people centered;
information systems; public policy
Scientific and technological
development; data sharing, space-
based earth observation, climate
modeling and forecasting; early
warning
Regional and emerging risks

Information sharing and cooperation;

Networks across disciplines and
regions; dialogue
Use of standard DRR terminology
Inclusion of DRR into school
curricula, formal and informal
education
Training and learning on DRR:
community level, local authorities,
targeted sectors; equal access
Research capacity: multi-risk; socio-
economic; application
Public awareness and media

Disaster management capacities:

policy, technical and institutional
capacities
Dialogue, coordination & information
exchange between disaster managers
and development sectors
Regional approaches to disaster
response, with risk reduction focus
Review & and exercise preparedness
and contingency plans
Emergency funds
Voluntarism & participation

Sustainable ecosystems and environmental

management
DRR strategies integrated with climate change
adaptation
Food security for resilience
DRR integrated into health sector and safe hospitals
Protection of critical public facilities
Recovery schemes and social safety- nets
Vulnerability reduction with diversified income options
Financial risk-sharing mechanisms
Public-private partnership
Land use planning and building codes
Rural development plans and DRR
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3. Use knowledge, innovation
and education to build a culture
of safety and resilience at
all levels
5. Strengthen disaster preparedness
for effective response at all levels
4. Reduce the underlying risk factors

DRR institutional mechanisms

(national platforms);
designated responsibilities
DRR part of development
policies and planning, sector
wise and multisector
Legislation to support DRR
Decentralisation of
responsibilities and resources
Assessment of human
resources and capacities
Foster political commitment
Community participation
Expected Outcome
The substantial reduction of disaster losses, in lives and in the social,
economic and environmental assets of communities and countries
1. Ensure that disaster risk
reduction (DRR) is a national
and a local priority with a
strong institutional basis for
implementation
2. Identify, assess and monitor
disaster risks and enhance early
warning
Multi-hazard approach Gender perspective and cultural diversity Community and volunteers participation Capacity building & technology transfer
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Expected outcome, strategic goals and priorities for action 2005-2015

The Hyogo Framework

for Action (HFA):
The common strategy approved by the member states of the
United Nations Organizations for global disaster risk reduction
is the Hyogo Framework for Action. In the Second UN World
Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held in Kobe, Japan
from 18 to 22 January, 2005, 168 states of the world unanimously
approved the Hyogo Framework of Action with commitment for
its adoption.
The Hyogo Framework for Action has expected an important
result that within the period of a decade by 2015, through
signifcant reduction of humanitarian, social, economic and
environmental impacts caused by disaster, every state and
community will develop resilience against it.
The Hyogo Framework of Action has defned fve priority areas
of action. In order to get them effectively implemented, guiding
principles are developed and it has also recommended practical
measures to develop resilience among the communities vulnerable
to disaster on the background of sustainable development.
The Hyogo Framework of Action emphasizes on the concept
of disaster risk reduction as a center of development plan and
strategy. Disaster challenges the achievements of development
and increases poverty. Thus it has made aware of the fact that
the impact of disaster can be the main barrier to Millennium
Development Goals (MDGs) if serious steps are not taken in
time.
The common
strategy approved by
the member states
of the United Nations
Organizations for
global disaster risk
reduction is the
Hyogo Framework
for Action.
The Hyogo Framework
for Action has expected
an important result that
within the period of a
decade by 2015, through
signifcant reduction
of humanitarian,
social, economic and
environmental impacts
caused by disaster,
every state and
community will develop
resilience against it.
Photo: ECO Nepal
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Priorities of Hyogo Framework for Action:
The Hyogo Framework for Action has
identifed fve priorities for actions. This
can be called as the core part of the Hyogo
Framework for Action. It has explained the
details of the potential actions under each
priority.
Priority action 1: Ensure that disaster
risk reduction is a national and a local
priority with a strong institutional basis
for implementation.
For strong institutional, national designs,
institutional instruments and legal framework,
sustainable resource management,
community participation must be strong.
Priority action 2: Identify, assess, and
monitor disaster risks and enhance early
warning system.
Identify local, regional and national
vulnerability, monitoring and evaluation,
develop early warning system, and capacity
building to cope with the potential
vulnerability.
Priority action 3: Use knowledge,
innovation, and education to build a
culture of safety and resilience at all
levels.
Information management and information
sharing at local and national level, raise
capacity through awareness including
education, training, and research to face
disaster and secured community.
Priority action 4: Reduce the underlying
risk factors
Environmental and natural resource
management, practice social and economical
development, reduce the causes of vulnerability
by appropriate landuse planning and
techniques.
Priority action 5: Strengthen disaster
preparedness for effective response at all
levels.
Make strong policies, technical and institutional
capacity through development of human and
physical resources with trainings related to
disaster management at local, regional land
national level.
With an aim of making effective disaster
risk reduction, there should be coordination,
information sharing between all stakeholders
of preparedness, vulnerability reduction, and
disaster coping and development sector.
In a national situation of disaster overlapping
the coping capacity, it is necessary to ensure the
effective development and strengthening of
coordination in regional level, implement the
policy in regional level, planning and establish
early warning system.
Develop planning and policy of preparedness
visioning the most disaster affective region and
group. Ensure the quick and effective response
in case of disaster, support with food and
necessary items and promote the practice of
preparedness.
To establish an Emergency fund as per
necessary for coping disaster, reduce loss and
support preparedness activities.
Motivate the attitude of volunteerism among
community and stakeholder and active
participation to reduce disaster vulnerability.
Mainstreaming Disaster
Risk Reduction into Development
It is necessary to draft
the legal and institutional
frameworks for mainstreaming
disaster into development to
work for disaster risk reduction
and develop risk resilient
Nepal.
Disasters destroy
human lives, property,
social and cultural
assets and phycho-
social well being of
the society
Disasters destroy
development
investments and
pull back years of
development and growth
Investment in development,
without risk consideration, will make
structures and systems vulnerable to
disasters
Achievement of Millennium Development
Goals and sustainable development
in Nepal cannot be achieved without
addressing disaster risks
Mainstreaming of disaster risk reduction
into development will enhance local,
regional and national capacity to cope
with disasters and become risk resilient
Economic development is necessary
for poverty reduction. Infrastructure
development plays a
vital role in ushering
development.
Infrastructure and
critical facility
development should
keep risk reduction
parameters in mind
from conception state
onwards
Adequate efforts
should be given to ensure
implementation of national
building code to reduce disaster risks.
This should be made mandatory at all
levels.
Community participation in all
levels of decision making is of
paramount importance in risk
reduction mainstreaming, including
participation of differentially
vulnerable groups
It is necessary to strengthen local
knowledge, skills and techniques
to cope with disasters, through a
community led participatory exercise
Photo: ECO Nepal
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Major Legal instruments for DRR
Natural Calamity Relief Act, 1982
National Action Plan 1996 (Amendment)
Three Years Interim Plan's Approach Paper 2005-2008
Disaster Victim Relief Distribution Norms , 2007
National Disaster Risk Reduction Platform, 2008
National Strategy on Disaster Risk Management, 2009
Disaster Management Act, 2009
Peoples Declaration on Disaster Risk Reduction
It is necessary to develop and put in
place disaster management action plan
in all 75 districts of Nepal and its VDCs
Adequate studies and researches
should be carried out along river basins
to understand oods, ash oods and
landslides, from hills to terai. Appropriate
mechanisms should be developed to
address associated risks to people,
property and environment
Recent earthquakes have
demonstrated that unsafe
school structures can cause
widespread loss. For example,
in 2004 earthquake in Pakistan,
18,000 children were killed by
unsafe school buildings. School
buildings in Nepal are unsafe.
Immediate measures should
be taken towards school and
hospital safety
Photo: UNDP-BPCR
"
We, the people of Nepal who are under constant
threat of disasters, who are affected by disasters
and vulnerable to the growing incidences of
calamities, hereby declare that:
1) Disaster Risk Reduction is peoples rights.
It entails ensuring security to people who
are affected by and vulnerable to disasters.
We urge the government of Nepal to
immediately take further measures for a
comprehensive disaster risk reduction policy
that emphasizes addressing the special needs
and concerns of differentially vulnerable
people.
2) The rights of people can be protected
only through appropriate legal and policy
provisions. We seek immediate adoption of
the Disaster Management Act 2063 (Revised
and submitted to the government in
February 2007) by the constituent assembly,
3) We believe that effcient governance and
a prosperous nation cannot be achieved
without including people in the decision
making process. Community is the frst
impact receiver of any disaster and the frst
responder too. We urge the government
to ensure that policy framework and
government decisions should invariably
include peoples participation at various and
appropriate levels.
4) We recognize the important role played
by international NGOs, civil society,
local NGOs, donors and government in
supporting disaster risk reduction initiatives.
Peoples Declaration on
Disaster Risk Reduction, Nepal
We believe that there is tremendous scope
for us to build upon our achievements and
scale up our initiatives at community level.
We seek continued support of the key
stakeholders who have been working with
us to enhance our disaster resilience.
5) We believe that a culture of risk reduction
has to be encouraged at all levels, from the
grassroots people to the highest offces of
the government. We urge the government
to build capacities of its own systems to
mainstream risk reduction at all levels and
invest in building community capacity to
better respond to and prepare themselves to
disasters.
6) We believe that mainstreaming disaster risk
reduction within the development process
and addressing rights of disaster affected
The new constitution of
Nepal should clearly address
the issues of disasters in
the country and should
the fundamental rights of
disaster affected and disaster
vulnerable persons to a safe
and secure life with dignity
and protection of their rights
from disaster risks
P
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people needs priority investments. We urge
the government, donors and international
community to listen to the voices of people
and extend their fullest support to our
desire to build a risk free nation.
7) We understand the importance of
working together. We declare our
underlying commitment to the process of
comprehensive disaster risk reduction in
Nepal and assure our support to initiatives
from government, donors, international
community and other national stakeholders
to build a Risk Free Nepal
8) We believe that a dream of a New Nepal
cannot be realized without addressing
the inherent risks posed by disasters. We
believe that disaster risk reduction is not
an option for this country, but an essential
pre-requisite that defnes its development
process.
9) We once again reiterate our commitment to
work with the government towards realizing
our goal of risk free Nepal.
"
We believe that a culture
of risk reduction has to be
encouraged at all levels,
from the grassroots people
to the highest ofces of
the government. We urge
the government to build
capacities of its own systems
to mainstream risk reduction
at all levels and invest in
building community capacity
to better respond to and
prepare themselves to
disasters.
Photo: Action Aid Nepal
Some Experiences of
Heavy Floods in Nepal
Koshi Floods:
Agony and Anguish
l
August 18, 2008: a breach in
the east embankment of the
mighty Koshi river resulted in
severe foods, displacing over
50,000 people of Sunsari and
Saptarhi districts.
l
Shantidevi Mandal, Haripur
VDC lost her father lost her
property and was forced to live
in the river bank for several
days without support,
without protection
l
We became totally hopeless
when food water rushed
into our village, said Anita
Sada, a 19 year old living in
emergency residence block
A constructed for Koshi
affected people. She was
seven months pregnant
when Koshi foods broke
out. Her family had to stay
without food for seven
days
l
I was to be drown by
food people were
shouting whole village
went under water with
great diffculty, we survived
and fed from our village.
l
Kaburahi Sahani said that
in the aftermath of foods,
she found herself and her
family to develop health
problems. She found the
49
billion
Economic loss of
1993's food and
landslide

August 18, 2008: a

breach in the east
embankment of the
mighty Koshi river
resulted in severe
foods, displacing
over 50,000 people
of Sunsari and
Saptarhi districts.
Photo: Co-Action Nepal
Reduction
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same in others too. She
got involved as a health
volunteer, but it came late.
If such support systems
were available immediately
after foods, things would
have been much better.
Kaburahi lost her son due to
post food epidemic.
l
Shanti Devi is another
person who lost everything
in life. She lost her home,
her buffaloes and land. Her
husband is a wage laborer
with irregular employment.
One of her sons is
physically challenged. Other
left home to work in India.
During the foods, when she
thought everything is lost,
some fellow villagers helped
rescued her to safe place
near the river bank. Her
future looks bleak now.
l
Nuna Devi and her three
children ran and ran with
other villagers during that
gruesome night. She was
9 months pregnant at that
time. She went many days
without food and with much
physical and mental pain.
Floods and
Landslides of 1993
The food and landslide of
Nepal occurred during 1993
A.D was the most destructing
disaster in 58 years time. The
data of loss at that year is as
follows:
Disaster loss area Loss
Death 1336
Missing 163
Affected family 85254
Destroyed Houses 25425
Agricultural land
(hectare) 17113
Economic Loss
(NRs ) 49,00,000
l The foods and landslides
of 1993 was one of the
most destructive disasters
to have hit Nepal.
l There is a widespread
feeling in the community
that losses by 1993 foods
and landslides are grossly
underestimated and
improperly reported
l There was no early warning
available to people. Warning
could have averted disaster
and reduced losses
l There was no weather
forecasts coming up.
People were not aware
that Koshi was swelling
alarmingly.
l There was no plans for
any shelter settlements.
The identifed shelters
were vulnerable to further
landslides
l At that time, even the
governmental, non
government and other
institutional support were
sporadic and not effcient.
An effcient system could
have reduced disaster after
effects to a great extent
l Post disaster epidemics
spread out, taking out more
lives with it. Even today,
people get nightmares of
that vicious day
l Government could not
provide adequate relief
and rehabilitation support,
though the royal family
had visited the affected
area in 1993. People were
left to fend for themselves.

The food and

landslide of Nepal
occurred during 1993
A.D was the most
destructing disaster
in 58 years time.
Photo: Co-Action Nepal
Promoting Early Warning System:
A Basis for Risk Reduction
Each year, the monsoon food destroys
life and property of thousands of
people. It causes soil erosion, kills
livestock destroys stored food items,
and life and properties making it almost
impossible to rehabilitate.
Hundreds of people are displacing
from their home as well as losing their
life due to landslides and soil erosion
occurring every year.
Millions of people in Nepal are
bound to live with a fear of potential
earthquake that may largely destroy life
and properties.
It is possible to get early warning
information to be safe from the above
mentioned disasters. It only demands
commitments and action to change
behaviour.
Till date, Community Based Early Warning
System (CBEWS) for food is established
in fve districts (Chitwan, Nawalparasi,
Banke, Bardia and Kailali) of Nepal. With
this successful experience we can now be
optimistic for a safer future.
Photo: Practical Action
One night in 1993, there was a
heavy food in village. The food
swept away my home together
with 24 livestock and 145800
sq. ft of crop land. Even I was
displaced near forest in the north
part of Bhandara.
-Nawaraj Silwal, 50, Bhandara, Chitwan
At midnight, when I got down
from my bed to go to toilet, I
came to know that the water level
was already reached to my knee.
-Lahu Ram Chaudhary, Lalitpur, Kailali
These are only few voices, representing the whole
affected people expressing their problems due to
lack of Early Warning System.
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As soon as we heard the Siren,
we came out from our house, took
our livestock to upland ground
(Thule Chour), and shifted our
important goods and documents
from ground foor to upstairs.
-Basant Chaudhary, Bagaicha Tole,
Nawalparasi, sharing experiences of after
food of 6 September 2007
We are happy and proud that life
of all the people in our community
was saved. Due to the Early
Warning System equipment
and right use of knowledge and
skills gained during the training
and exposure visits people were
safe in the project communities.
Whereas, 24 people had lost
their lives in our neighbouring
communities.
-ChalluRam Chaudhary, Hasuliya, Kailai
sharing his experiences after food of 20
September 2008
This time there was no need
of rescue and relief operation
due to Early Warning System
established in west Rapti River.
The communities already received
the food information and reached
to safer place before food.
-Chief District Offcer, Birendra Baniya,
Banke speaking in5 January 2010 workshop
after the food of 6 October 2009
Photo: Practical Action
Defnitely, all food affected people
residing near river banks in Nepal are
not getting early warning facilities.
Besides food, there is no early warning
system established for other different
types of disaster.
It is an urgent need to scale up such
Early Warning System in other areas
of the country. Hence, the support to
government has already been started to
draft National Early Warning Strategy for
Key Disaster Risk Reduction in Nepal.
Disaster Loss Database
Database of disaster loss from 1971 A.D to 2008 A.D
Achham 131 627 97 213,793 299 43
Arghakanchi 95 145 316 31,574 697 768
Baglung 195 422 181 59,360 964 276
Baitadi 108 331 1,669 24,507 1,426 2,018
Bajhang 79 281 30 13,053 6,516 8,622
Bajura 130 460 54 23,631 421 74
Banke 344 1,022 763 87,933 5,347 544
Bara 276 223 673 109,941 1,704 415
Bardiya 170 198 484 27,152 8,871 9,156
Bhaktapur 218 76 200 13,343 657 1,674
Bhojpur 130 219 749 81,354 1,791 4,785
Chitawan 280 419 5,592 192,515 5,160 953
Dadeldhura 86 55 192 7,331 95 132
Dailekh 168 485 154 7,747 389 136
Dang 372 483 551 55,211 1,683 361
Darchula 113 193 134 2,861 4,307 2,885
Dhading 315 450 535 25,171 1,636 685
Dhankuta 140 219 1,247 7,485 3,831 5,446
Dhanusa 388 660 976 424,180 9,179 9,148
Dolakha 182 316 590 18,504 722 1,581
Dolpa 72 328 68 820 39 0
Doti 185 784 2,250 32,548 151 184
Gorkha 170 421 696 37,585 729 45
Gulmi 135 274 88 6,722 444 298
Humla 150 391 89 10,980 132 77
Ilam 165 233 1,496 4,038 1,003 3,056
Jajarkot 124 490 250 14,247 604 342
Jhapa 601 570 1,363 50,030 5,132 783
Jumla 138 408 242 46,082 224 156
Kailali 363 1,056 893 66,996 2,265 447
Kalikot 119 604 153 4,703 85 247
Kanchanpur 223 281 4,968 30,853 848 566
Kapilbastu 163 274 308 36,623 5,540 242
Kaski 355 369 241 7,329 449 249
Kathmandu 673 404 828 8,235 518 795
Kavre 329 303 1,099 30,105 2,826 1,150
Khotang 111 254 549 13,437 3,171 6,175
Lalitpur 269 198 167 3,366 848 370
District Data-cards Human Houses
Deaths Injuries Affected Destroyed Damaged
Reduction
Disaster
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Lamjung 155 161 74 11,786 468 127
Mahotari 355 433 1,305 548,075 9,073 6,144
Makwanpur 473 946 571 101,716 3,638 2,844
Manang 46 78 15 808 41 4
Morang 651 835 2,061 87,053 3,555 4,038
Mugu 72 336 78 3,249 264 67
Mustang 48 40 25 2,278 121 4
Myagdi 138 225 403 18,036 264 128
Nawalparasi 322 301 893 76,443 4,593 1,706
Nuwakot 232 271 567 8,653 366 117
Okhaldhunga 125 211 253 7,979 2,224 1,382
Palpa 194 304 951 56,484 895 434
Panchthar 145 189 834 9,658 1,498 3,486
Parbat 175 88 476 69,816 384 145
Parsa 232 235 3,194 371,942 3,423 380
Pyuthan 100 247 618 2,077 368 66
Ramechhap 214 223 594 23,328 1,666 3,063
Rasuwa 112 374 22 4,191 252 139
Rautahat 343 655 574 393,066 5,915 13,969
Rolpa 84 227 206 4,938 429 11
Rukum 121 366 149 13,705 761 496
Rupandehi 292 501 1,064 51,591 4,207 1,301
Salyan 129 208 450 3,242 249 74
Sankhuwasabha 210 245 473 17,251 1,088 1,582
Saptari 539 831 545 432,075 25,542 2,803
Sarlahi 338 997 769 456,498 14,451 15,492
Sindhuli 290 467 714 164,612 4,059 2,957
Sindhupalchoke 314 662 866 96,491 1,395 621
Siraha 328 376 379 68,859 9,759 3,260
Solukhumbu 123 164 515 13,984 545 95
Sunsari 479 531 2,911 258,577 14,923 9,195
Surkhet 81 112 23 4,385 105 210
Syangja 309 388 258 32,989 1,666 939
Tanahu 253 253 366 86,501 793 647
Taplejung 230 276 362 23,503 618 575
Terhathum 99 127 194 10,920 1,574 2,523
Udayapur 263 329 744 75,845 4,367 3,854
Total 16,879 28,138 55,431 5,443,949 206,242 149,762
Source: Nepal Desinventar Database, 2009 NSET
District Data-cards Human Houses
Deaths Injuries Affected Destroyed Damaged
Database of Disaster Loss
The disaster database of different types of disaster within 8 years, from 2001 A.D to 2008 A.D,
shows clear picture of Nepal
Loss/Year 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008
Death 394 418 461 310 192 221 322 171
Missing 95 45 21 58 11 20 189 6
Injured 181 134 287 160 220 150 186 55
Affected Family 26303 16054 40486 11730 16997 4273 1,29,649 21,600
Livestock loss 947 667 2126 1125 905 727 22,140 7066
Destroyed houses 8540 4596 15632 6458 3681 3155 13,655 13864
Damaged Houses 700 1664 4204 361 1137 13 28,041 1228
Agricutural land (Hectare) 520 1025 4,029 21,016
Economic loss (NRs) 1286964014 539874525 4276166156 989909000 341095212 381969055 2230866966 1,63,32300
Source: MOHA
Reduction
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Earthquake Grief of Nepal will be More Horrible
Nepal faced destructing earthquakes in1934 A.D and 1985. Meanshilw, there were some small scale earthquakes
which also made some damages. The earthquakes and the loss:
Loss/Year 1934 1966 1980 1988
Earthquake Magnitude
(Richter scale) 8.4 6.6
Earthquake Occurred Area Nepal and India Western Nepal Western Nepal Eastern Nepal
Most Affected Area Kathmandu Darchula, Darchula, Sunsari, Dharan
Baitadi, Bajang Baitadi, Bajang
Death 8,519 14 103 721
Houses Loss 2,07,740 Not Available Not Available 65,000
Source: NSET
Lesson learned from the earthquake incidence and the effects occurred after disaster are as follows:
Earthquake is not a frequent disaster event. However, experts has mentioned that in every 100 years, Nepal will
face a devastating earthquake. Earthquake is not regular as food, landslide, epedimics etc.
Though earthquake occurs in a long time interval, damages and loss of life and property from earthquake will be
incredible.
It is not possible to predict when earthquake occurs and earthquakes occurs in very short time. Though it is of
short duration, it effects the development and destroys all constructiom. Earthquake doesnot kill people, but
people die during the breakdown of the constructed buildings.
The effect of earthquake is colossal and enormous money and time is necessary for reconstruction and
rehabilitation.
Western Nepal: Doti, Achham, Kalikot, Jajarkot,
Kailali and Banke; similarly eastern Nepal:
Rautahat, Dhanusha, Saptari and Morang-
More than 400 people are died of Epidemics.
The data shows that these districts are mostly
affected by epidemics.
Large number of people died due
to landslide in eight mountain
districts of Nepal; Myagdi, Kaski,
Syanjya, Dhading, Sindhupalchowk,
Makawanpur, Khotang, Taplejung.
Flood has effected terai region
of Nepal, most people lost
their lives in central region,
Makawanpur and Sarlahi.
Reduction
Disaster
Risk
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Disaster brings economic
loss. It is found that
disasters like food,
landslide, and fre
contributes to the
property loss in Nepal
Landlside has
affected buildings
of Syangya,
Dhading, Kaski
and Makawanpur
of Manabharat
range.
Fire is huge problem in terai region.
Enourmous houses are lost due
to fre in Jhapa, Morang, Sunsari,
Siraha, Dhanusa, Mahotari, Parsa,
kapilbastu and Banke districts of
Nepal.
Flood has affected
buildings in Jhapa, Morang,
Siraha, Makawanpur,
Sindhuli, Chitwan,
Nawalparasi, Rupandehi
including other terai
districts.
Reduction
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For more information on DRR please contact any of the partners
European Commission Humanitarian Aid department (ECHO) Nepal
977 1 4439120
www.ec.europa.eu/echo
Australian Government (AusAID)
977 1 4371678
www.ausaid.gov.au
Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA)
977 1 4211219/4211200
www.moha.gov.np
Association of International NGOs (AIN)
977 1 4222271/4222247
www.ain.org.np
UNDP Nepal/UNDP-BPCR
977 1 5523200
www.undp.org.np
ActionAid Nepal
977 1 4436477/4421232
www.actionaid.org/nepal
CARE Nepal
977 1 5522800/5522153
www.carenepal.org
Handicap International
977 1 4378482/4374609
www.handicap-international.org
Mercy Corps
977 1 5555532
www.mercycorps.org/countries/nepal
Practical Action
977 1 4446015/4434482
www.practical action.org
Oxfam International
977 1 5530574/5542881
www.oxfam.org
DPNet Nepal
977 1 4672165/6226613
www.dpnet.org.np
National Society for Earthquake Technology (NSET)
977 1 5591000
www.nset.org.np
Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS)
977 1 4270650/4273734
www.nrcs.org
Co-Action Nepal
977 56533168
www.nepaldisaster.org
ECO Nepal
977 1 4435844
www.econepal.org
Working Together for a Risk Resilient Nepal