Kathmandu [Nepal], September 9 – Finance Minister Dr Swarnim Wagle has directed authorities to ensure a realistic assessment of damage and recovery needs caused by the Bhotekoshi flood as Nepal prepares a joint report to guide reconstruction and investment.
Wagle issued the directive during a discussion at the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday involving the National Planning Commission (NPC) and the World Bank’s Nepal representative. The meeting reviewed preliminary findings from the Rapid Disaster Needs Assessment (RDNA) being prepared by an NPC task force and the Global Rapid Damage Estimation (GRADE) prepared by the World Bank.
Wagle said accurate assessment of physical damage and recovery needs was essential for effective reconstruction, rehabilitation, government decision-making and mobilising investment.
The NPC is preparing a draft assessment covering physical and human losses while the World Bank has completed an initial damage assessment. Officials discussed verifying the preliminary findings and preparing a shared report.
The RDNA assesses damage across social, productive, infrastructure and intersectoral sectors. These include buildings, education and health facilities, agriculture, livestock, hydropower, roads, bridges, telecommunications, irrigation and river management as well as debris and hazardous waste.
The government plans to release a joint RDNA report soon which will guide relief, investment mobilisation, reconstruction and restoration efforts.
