Bhote Koshi-Trishuli Floods: Reconstruction Estimated to Cost Over Rs 900 Billion; Govt Preps for Donor Conference

Kathmandu — Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle has stated that the reconstruction of infrastructure destroyed by the devastating Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river floods could cost over Rs 900 billion (approximately $6 billion). The projected cost is exceptionally high because the government plans to build stronger, highly disaster-resilient structures rather than merely restoring the damaged ones to their previous state.

While the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority initially estimated the damages at Rs 38.6 billion, the National Planning Commission (NPC) is preparing to conduct a technology-driven, comprehensive Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) within the next month and a half. According to NPC Vice-Chairman Gunakar Bhatta, the hydropower sector alone sustained damages exceeding Rs 100 billion. Additionally, the disaster completely wiped out 74,500 private homes, 40 kilometers of roads, and 30 bridges.

Once the detailed damage assessment is finalized, the government plans to host an international donor conference, similar to the initiative taken after the 2015 earthquake. Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal confirmed that discussions are actively underway between the Finance and Foreign ministries to facilitate this. In the wake of the disaster, Nepal has already received substantial financial and material support from various nations—including India, China, the US, the UK, the UAE, and Australia—as well as from agencies like the World Bank and the ADB. Notably, American tech giant Nvidia also contributed $10 million to the relief efforts.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister's Disaster Relief Fund has amassed over Rs 11 billion so far. Prime Minister Balendra Shah expressed his gratitude to all friendly nations and organizations standing by Nepal during this crisis. Furthermore, the United Nations has launched an emergency appeal for $50 million (around Rs 7.5 billion) to provide immediate humanitarian assistance to over 84,000 flood victims, prioritizing urgent relief for high-altitude communities before the harsh winter sets in.