Deadly flooding caused by record-breaking rains recently inundated the Nepalese capital, Kathmandu, leading to over 200 deaths and significant property damage. Experts are debating the reasons behind the disaster, pointing to both climate change and unchecked urban development along the Bagmati river that flows through the Kathmandu valley as contributing factors.
The intense rainfall, with levels reaching up to 12.7 inches in some areas, was the heaviest recorded since 2002. The resulting floods and landslides have prompted a massive rescue effort by the police, paramilitary forces, and the army, with more than 4,000 people already rescued.
Experts suggest that unplanned urbanization, deforestation, and outdated drainage systems worsened the impact of the flooding. Climate change is also blamed for making floods more frequent and severe in Nepal in recent years.
Communities living in informal settlements along riverbanks have been hit the hardest, with many losing their homes, jobs, and belongings. To prevent future disasters, experts recommend improving urban planning, using porous materials in construction, and updating infrastructure to accommodate the growing population.
Efforts to raise awareness and improve warning systems for floods and other water-related disasters are also crucial in mitigating the impact of such events. Collaboration between government agencies and research institutions is seen as key to developing effective solutions to prevent future catastrophes.
The recent flooding in Nepal serves as a grim reminder of the need for proactive measures to address the growing threat of climate change-induced natural disasters in the region.
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