Nepal Flood Recovery: Lessons from 2015 Earthquake Aid

Nepal’s flood recovery efforts require a balance between immediate relief and foundational rebuilding, drawing insights from the 2015 earthquake response. The review of past aid highlighted that cash transfers empower survivors and stimulate local economies, a strategy also emphasized in current UN appeals.

However, funding must shift from short-term aid to restoring livelihoods and infrastructure. Decisions regarding housing, relocation from vulnerable areas, and mitigating corruption risks necessitate rapid, community-led planning that incorporates local skills and voices.

Past experiences showed issues with prolonged relief operations, inadequate temporary shelters, and bureaucratic hurdles delaying vital supplies. The need for transparency and direct engagement with affected communities, particularly women, was also identified as crucial for effective recovery.