Kathmandu [Nepal], September 11 – The government has estimated that Rs 723.315 billion will be required to reconstruct structures and infrastructure damaged by the devastating Bhotekoshi river floods on August 26.
According to a Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (RDNA) prepared jointly by the National Planning Commission and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority about 75% of the total recovery requirement will be needed for infrastructure.
The government estimates Rs 473.57 billion for infrastructure recovery with the energy and transport sectors among the worst affected. Thirteen hydropower projects with a combined capacity of 759 MW and five solar plants with a total capacity of 24 MW were affected. Restoring energy and grid systems alone is estimated to cost Rs 390.62 billion.
The floods damaged 69 kilometres of roads, destroyed 33 motorable bridges and partially damaged four others. Of 64 suspension bridges in affected areas, 53 were damaged. Transport infrastructure recovery is estimated at Rs 73.34 billion.
A total of 7,570 private houses, 48 public buildings, 18 schools, 7 health facilities and 30 cultural heritage sites were damaged. Recovery of these social sectors is estimated at Rs 103.55 billion.
The productive sector including agriculture, businesses, trade and banking requires an estimated Rs 50.77 billion for recovery. The floods affected 1,806 hectares of crops, 17 bank branches and 4,800 businesses.
The government estimates Rs 8.73 billion for immediate relief and short-term reconstruction over six months while Rs 714.58 billion is needed for long-term reconstruction.
A detailed post-disaster needs assessment is also underway.
