Nepal Reassesses Infrastructure Model After Devastating Floods
Summary
Nepal is revising its infrastructure standards after devastating floods and landslides damaged roads and bridges worth about Rs 21.5 billion. Officials and experts say future projects must be climate-resilient, geographically tailored, and built with stronger bridge and road designs.
Key Points
- The Department of Roads estimates flood and landslide damage to roads and bridges at about Rs 21.5 billion and says it will revise infrastructure design codes.
- Officials want climate-resilient, location-specific standards, including higher freeboard, debris-flow considerations, and long-span bridges without mid-river pillars.
- The government has requested about Rs 53 billion for reconstruction and alternative roads, while donors such as the World Bank and JICA have shown interest in support.
- Experts warn against hasty construction, weak design, and taking large foreign loans for rebuilding damaged infrastructure.
