Experts Urge Prioritization of Early Warning Systems and Scientific Research for Himalayan Water Disaster Risk Reduction
Summary
Experts and stakeholders at COP-31 in Turkey urged stronger early warning systems, scientific research, and coordinated climate-resilient planning to reduce water-induced disaster risks in Nepal’s Himalayan region. They warned that floods, avalanches, and rockfalls are causing long-term damage to livelihoods, food security, culture, and infrastructure.
Key Points
- Speakers at a COP-31 side event in Turkey called for prioritizing disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and scientific research to reduce Himalayan water-disaster risks.
- Experts said recent water-related disasters in Nepal have caused widespread damage to infrastructure, agriculture, livelihoods, and indigenous communities, with the Bhotekoshi flood affecting more than 15,000 households.
- MP Dharmaraj KC urged integrated action across water resources, agriculture, irrigation, energy, climate change, and disaster management, along with stronger cooperation across government levels.
- Panelists from IWMI, ADB, the Australian Embassy, and civil society stressed regional cooperation, better implementation of policies, and inclusion of non-economic losses in recovery planning.
