Kathmandu, October 3, 2024
The recent floods and landslides in Nepal, triggered by heavy rains between September 26 and 28, have resulted in a tragic loss of life and extensive damage across the country. According to the latest Situation Report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), a staggering 224 people have lost their lives, with 158 injured and 24 still missing.
The torrential rains, which affected multiple districts, have severely impacted private housing and critical infrastructure. More than 700 houses were completely destroyed, while over 500 homes were partially damaged. Essential facilities like 43 schools and 41 health centers have also suffered extensive damage, hampering both education and healthcare services.
Emergency Rescue Operations in Full Swing
Nepal’s security forces, including more than 30,731 personnel, were swiftly deployed for rescue operations. Over 12,500 people were rescued, and 713 stranded individuals were airlifted to safety via helicopter.
Devastation to Infrastructure and Agriculture
The floods and landslides have caused immense damage to infrastructure. Eleven hydropower projects were severely affected, leading to a loss of NPR 8.3 billion. Additionally, six irrigation projects and 27 highways were either blocked or destroyed, incurring losses of NPR 1.38 billion and NPR 1.5 billion, respectively. Fourteen suspension bridges and 11 other bridges, including Bailey, RCC, and ARC, were damaged, resulting in an additional loss of NPR 1.02 billion.
Agriculture, a key livelihood for millions in Nepal, has also been significantly affected. Paddy fields spanning over 88,000 hectares were damaged, leading to an estimated loss of NPR 13.5 billion. Similarly, fruits and vegetable farms covering 4,765 hectares, as well as sugarcane and cardamom fields, were affected. Livestock was not spared, with 26,205 animals lost, compounding the challenges faced by rural communities.
Telecommunication and Economic Losses
The disaster has not only disrupted daily life but has also affected communication services, with over 302 telecom sites going down. Nepal Telecom suffered a loss of NPR 165 million, while Ncell and Internet Service Providers faced losses amounting to NPR 70 million and NPR 0.31 billion, respectively.
The ongoing assessment by the NDRRMA suggests that the total economic damage from these floods and landslides could run into billions, with critical infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihood sectors bearing the brunt of the devastation.
As the country begins the arduous task of recovery, the NDRRMA and local authorities continue to conduct rescue operations, provide relief to the affected, and assess the full extent of the damage. Nepal’s resilience will be tested once again as communities across the country begin rebuilding their lives after this catastrophic event.
