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The Discussion Program on the Draft Monsoon Preparedness and Response Plan (MPRP) 2082, held on May 20, 2025, in Kathmandu, brought together a diverse range of stakeholders from government agencies, security forces, and technical experts to civil society, INGOs, private sector actors, and local representatives to review, reflect, and provide feedback on Nepal’s preparedness for the upcoming monsoon season. Organized by NDRRMA in coordination with DPNet-Nepal and supported by Oxfam in Nepal, live broadcasted through NDRRMA Facebook page, the event emphasized the urgent need for a more inclusive, decentralized, monsoon preparedness and response plan. Key discussions focused on lessons learned from past disasters like the Kathmandu Valley flood and Til permafrost-release flood, gaps in inter-agency coordination, institutional role clarity, integration of gender and inclusion, urban risk factors, mental health, and community-led action. Numerous suggestions called for strengthened local capacity, pre-positioning of resources, improved early warning dissemination, integration of multi-hazard risks, legal reforms, and greater involvement of non-government sectors. Participants urged for the MPRP 2082 to be concise, actionable, federalism-aligned, and focused on preparedness rather than response, incorporating both seasonal forecasts and local realities.

Program Details

1. Opening Session

On May 20, 2025, in Kathmandu, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) organized a Discussion Program on the Draft Monsoon Preparedness and Response Plan 2082. The event was conducted in coordination with the Disaster Preparedness Network-Nepal (DPNet-Nepal) and was supported by OXFAM in Nepal.

The event was chaired by Mr. Dinesh Prasad Bhatt, Chief Executive of the NDRRMA, and was graced by the presence of Hon'ble Rupa B.K., State Minister for Forests and Environment, as the Chief Guest. Distinguished guests included Mr. Sabin Pratap K.C., Lieutenant Colonel of the Disaster Management Directorate, Nepal Army; Mr. Bhuwaneshwor Tiwari, Superintendent of Police of Disaster Management Division, Nepal Police; Mr. Mohan Bahadur Chhetri, Superintendent of Armed Police Force; Ms. Pratibha Manandhar, Senior Divisional Meteorologist of Department Of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM); Mr. Binod Parajuli, Senior Divisional Hydrologist of DHM; Dr. Raju Thapa, Chairperson of DPNet-Nepal and Member Secretary of the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (NPDRR); Mr. Surya Bahadur Thapa, Immediate Past Chairperson of DPNet-Nepal; and Dr. S.P. Kalauni, Chairperson of the Association of International NGOs in Nepal (AIN).

The program was attended by a diverse group of participants, including government officials from various federal and provincial ministries and departments, representatives from security agencies, semi-government organizations, UN agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, academia, research institutions, donor agencies, I/NGOs, private sectors, DRR experts, and media personnel. Many of the attendees were members of the NPDRR, representing various sectoral groups.

Mr. Suraj Gautam, General Secretary, DPNet Nepal (Master of Ceremony)

Mr. Gautam welcomed the guests and invited the chairperson and dignitaries to take their seats. In his remarks, he reflected on the Third National Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (NCDRR-3), where there were in-depth discussions on lessons learned from previous monsoon seasons. He emphasized that it is now high time to incorporate these lessons into the Monsoon Preparedness and Response Plan (MPRP).

Mr. Gautam also recalled major monsoon-related disasters from previous years, including the Simaltal bus accident, the Birendra Lake outburst following an avalanche in the Manaslu region, and various cloudburst events. Referring to the Statement from the South Asian Climate Outlook Forum (SASCOF) regarding the 2025 Southwest Monsoon Season, he noted that above-normal rainfall is most likely across much of South Asia, including Nepal.

With these reflections and the seasonal outlook from SASCOF and further forecasts from the DHM, he expressed hope that the program would offer valuable suggestions for pre-positioning resources and actions according to caseload while finalizing the MPRP 2082.

He also shared that the preparedness efforts are being coordinated across federal and provincial ministries, departments, security forces, semi-government organizations, UN agencies, development partners, civil society, academia, research institutions, donors, I/NGOs, private sector stakeholders, DRR experts, and associations like the Municipal Association of Nepal (MuAN) and the National Association of Rural Municipalities in Nepal (NARMIN).

 The session was then followed by a security briefing and the national anthem.

 Mr. Ram Bahadur K.C., Under Secretary and Spokesperson, NDRRMA

In his welcome remarks, Mr. K.C. greeted all the distinguished guests and participants on behalf of the organizers. He noted that, with the monsoon season only a few days away, it is important to reflect on the disasters experienced during past monsoons. He highlighted that about 80% of Nepal’s annual rainfall occurs during the monsoon season, and approximately 40% of total annual disasters take place during this period.

He emphasized that Nepal is a disaster-prone country, highly vulnerable to various hazards. To address this, the Draft MPRP 2082 has been under preparation since the month of Chaitra, through broad consultations with cluster leads, co-leads, and security agencies. He mentioned that the draft is now ready and that suggestions are being sought to ensure its effective implementation and to minimize the impacts of monsoon-related disasters.

He added that the upcoming Monsoon Forecast and Outlook from the DHM will help further align the plan with anticipated climate conditions. Once finalized, the plan will be presented to the Executive Committee for approval and implementation.

He concluded by stating that this year’s plan provides a roadmap for collaboration and calls for joint efforts to strengthen the document and reduce the impact of monsoon-related disasters. He expressed hope that all participants would provide valuable inputs to improve the draft plan.

Mr. Surya Bahadur Thapa

Mr. Thapa mentioned that DPNet-Nepal has long been coordinating with the Ministry of Home Affairs to organize discussion programs on the MPRP, even before the establishment of NDRRMA.

As monsoon-induced disasters such as floods and landslides recur annually, this program aims to facilitate experience-sharing, review of existing resources and preparations, and to strengthen collective efforts in preparedness in order to minimize impacts. He expressed satisfaction that this pre-monsoon workshop is now being led by NDRRMA.

He emphasized that DPNet, being an umbrella organization of all institutions working in disaster risk reduction, collaborates with stakeholders to reduce disaster impacts. He shared that the Task Force formed to draft the MPRP 2082 is led by a Joint Secretary of NDRRMA and includes representatives from various government agencies. However, he suggested that non-government sectors, including civil society and the private sector, should also be part of such task forces, as the implementation of preparedness plans requires coordinated efforts from both government and non-government sectors.

Reflecting on past disasters, he noted that many challenges were encountered, and several sessions have been conducted to facilitate learning and review. He emphasized that even small interventions can significantly reduce overall disaster impact. For instance, he recommended conducting hazard zoning in risk-prone areas and pre-positioning rescue items, food supplies, and medicine, especially considering Nepal’s challenging geography.

He highlighted the need for improving the road network, ensuring the availability of dozers and operators, and other interventions to improve accessibility during emergencies. He shared an example from Dolpa, where road disruption could have been resolved with a minor intervention, but was prolonged due to the unavailability of a dozer operator. This example illustrates how small preparedness actions and local knowledge can significantly reduce disaster impacts, especially during the preparatory stage. He requested all participants to actively contribute their suggestions during the program.

2. Technical Session

After the formal program concluded, the technical session commenced with expert presentations and in-depth discussions on the Draft Monsoon Preparedness and Response Plan 2082. This session focused on analyzing past disasters, reviewing the plan's components, identifying gaps, and gathering technical and field-based recommendations to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of the MPRP.

Ms. Pratibha Manandhar

Ms. Manandhar stated that the Seasonal Climate Outlook for Nepal will be officially released by the DHM on May 21, 2025. Referring to a preliminary summary, she shared that above-normal rainfall is most likely during the 2025 monsoon season (June–September) in Nepal. She shared that the Lumbini, Karnali and Gandaki will receive more rain. She also noted that above-normal minimum temperatures are expected over most parts of Nepal, and seasonal maximum temperatures are also likely to be above normal. Western part of Nepal will experience more temperature. Furthermore, she pointed out a shifting rainfall pattern in recent years, with intense rainfall occurring over short time periods, a trend likely to continue this year. She also shared that the first two months of the monsoon will have higher rainfall than later two months.

Ms. Manandhar emphasized that preparedness actions should align with the forecast to minimize the impacts of the upcoming monsoon. She added that although above-normal rainfall may boost agricultural productivity, it also increases the risk of disasters, and thus extra attention and preparedness are essential.

Mr. Rajan Ghimire, Emergency Management Lead, Oxfam in Nepal

Mr. Ghimire emphasized that we share a common responsibility and objective, to reduce the impact of disasters and protect our communities. He stated that they are exploring how the lessons learned from the Kathmandu Valley Flood of 2024 can inform the Draft MPRP 2082.

He shared that the findings from their research on the 2024 flood primarily focused on communication, coordination, and collaboration during and after the event. He noted that the identified causes and impacts from the study can provide valuable input not only for the current monsoon plan but also for future disaster preparedness efforts.

Mr. Subigya Prabhat Wagle, Green Graduates Development Consultant Pvt. Ltd

Mr. Wagle in his presentation titled “Analysis of Kathmandu Valley Flood 2024 through a Watershed Management Perspective” shared that the September 2024 floods in Kathmandu Valley were primarily caused by intense monsoon rainfall, unplanned urban growth, and inadequate infrastructure. According to him, various studies of the valley's watershed suggest that rapid urbanization has significantly altered the natural water balance, resulting in increased surface runoff, heightened flood risks, and reduced groundwater recharge. He emphasized that human-induced factors such as blocked and poorly maintained drainage systems, river encroachments, unmanaged land use, excessive sand mining, and deforestation in upstream regions have further exacerbated the impacts. He also shared that the study is currently ongoing and will incorporate further data and insights, including from the recent flood event. He informed that the research is being conducted using Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), field observations, and various secondary sources.

He presented that the September 2024 flood was among the most devastating in recent decades, severely impacting both core urban and peri-urban areas. Between September 26 and 28, extreme rainfall was recorded at 25 stations across 14 districts, with Tribhuvan International Airport registering 239.7 mm in 24 hours surpassing the previous record of 177 mm in 2002.

He urged stakeholders to recognize the anthropogenic factors worsening flood risks. Sharing a comparative photographic timeline from 2004 to 2024, he illustrated how encroachment on floodplains and river channelization such as the use of concrete walls Nakhkhu areas and flow of debris from construction sites from Lele to Nakhu have reduced river widths and altered natural flow patterns. This has led to increased sediment accumulation and flood inundation, even during relatively short periods of rainfall. The trend of developing roads along riverbanks has also contributed to flooding, as these roads are often submerged due to reduced channel capacity.

He further highlighted that built-up areas in Kathmandu Valley increased from 22% in 2000 to over 60% by 2022. Rapid urban expansion, the establishment of informal settlements along rivers, and the construction of flow regulators, roads, and other infrastructure within floodplains have significantly modified the hydrological behavior of rivers, diminishing their flood-carrying capacity.

From a hydrometeorological perspective, he cited that the Bagmati River and its tributaries exceeded their carrying capacity during the September flood, with water levels reaching 7.23 meters at the Khokana station. Additionally, he noted the influence of the Melamchi Drinking Water Project, which currently adds 170 million liters of water per day to the valley's system, with plans to expand up to 510 million liters. He urged that the additional water load could strain Kathmandu’s aging drainage infrastructure and increase the risk of localized flooding unless comprehensive upgrades are undertaken.

On policy and governance, he reviewed the current disaster management framework. He highlighted that while the NDRRMA leads national disaster responses, effective coordination remains weak. For example, although the DRRM Act 2017 assigns the Chief Executive of NDRRMA a leading role in disaster response, it does not grant the authority to mobilize security forces or resources independently, necessitating coordination with the Ministry of Home Affairs. He noted a lack of clarity and overlap in institutional responsibilities among agencies such as the High-Powered Committee for Integrated Development of the Bagmati Civilization (HPCIDBC), the Kathmandu Valley Development Authority (KVDA), and local governments. Although HPCIDBC focuses on Bagmati corridor development, upstream-downstream coordination remains limited due to gaps in the legal framework.

He stressed that local governments often lack technical capacity and role clarity, and suggested that forums like the Mayor’s Forum and a 24-hour functioning Local Emergency Operations Center (LEOC) could be better utilized. He further observed that while various disaster risk reduction policies exist, their implementation and monitoring are fragmented. He recommended integrating multi-hazard considerations into building codes and ensuring policies such as the Local Adaptation Plan for Action (LAPA) and Local Disaster and Climate Resilience Framework (LDCRF) are effectively operationalized.

He concluded by identifying key intervention gaps, including poor community-level early warning communication, inadequate risk zone mapping, weak enforcement of zoning regulations, and a general reliance on reactive rather than proactive measures. He also emphasized the need for greater investment in nature-based solutions, such as the sponge city concept, and urged the integration of flood return periods into the design of embankments. Finally, he highlighted the importance of mobilizing local resources and ensuring political commitment to reduce flood risks in the Kathmandu Valley.

Dr. Arun Bhakta Shrestha, Senior Advisor at ICIMOD

Dr. Shrestha shared a preliminary analysis of the Til flood event, which occurred at 10 p.m. on the night of May 15, 2025, in the village of Til, located in the Limi Valley. He highlighted that within the broader scope of the cryosphere which includes glaciers, snow cover, ice caps, ice sheets (such as those in Greenland and Antarctica), sea ice, permafrost, and frozen rivers and lakes, permafrost is often less studied. However, emerging evidence shows that it plays a significant role in contributing to disaster events, and its study is equally important.

He shared that preliminary findings suggest the Til flood may be related to permafrost degradation, similar to other recent events such as the South Lhonak Lake Outburst Flood in Sikkim, and partially in events observed in Melamchi (Nepal) and Chamoli (India). Dr. Shrestha noted that ongoing studies, including those from a University in Germany, have documented six similar glacial drainage events in the past. He also referenced comparable incidents in Afghanistan in 2017 and in Austria, both of which involved the influence of degrading permafrost.

He emphasized that satellite imagery alone cannot provide conclusive evidence about the causes of such events, particularly due to cloud cover, and that field visits are necessary for detailed assessment although conducting such visits in remote, high-altitude areas remains highly challenging. He also warned that such events are likely to increase in frequency in the future. The early warning system currently in place in Halji, he noted, cannot cover the entire catchment area and is therefore insufficient to mitigate risks comprehensively.

Mr. Sudan Bikash Maharjan, Remote Sensing Analyst

Mr. Maharjan further elaborated on the use of remote sensing and local data to analyze the Til flood event. He shared that cracks observed in the field indicate drainage through these fissures. Satellite imagery has identified rock glaciers and permafrost features in the affected location, with one particularly prominent flood point being visible. However, the exact flow point and water movement process remain unknown, largely due to cloud cover and limitations of satellite-based analysis.

He shared that in the past year, ICIMOD, in collaboration with NDRRMA, organized a workshop demonstrating seasonal monitoring of such cryosphere hazards. Drawing from international experiences in Austria and Afghanistan, he echoed that field observations remain the most reliable method for detailed assessment of floods and landslides caused by permafrost and related phenomena.

According to him, current assessments suggest that 18 households are at risk in the affected area. Mr. Maharjan reported that two lakes in the vicinity have remained stable in size over recent years. These lakes, formed by accumulated snow and ice melt, sit atop loose, unconsolidated glacial debris typical of periglacial landscapes. He pointed out a significant presence of degrading permafrost, which could have contributed to hydrostatic pressure beneath the frozen surface. This pressure may have exploited thermokarst features, landforms created by thawing permafrost allowing water to drain invisibly and unexpectedly. He shared that water may have been released from the bottom of a thermokarst feature approximately 300 meters downstream of the lakes. Given these characteristics, the Til flood does not resemble a typical Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) and based on current understanding, the event could be more accurately described as a Thermokarst Flood or Permafrost-Release Flood.

 Mr. Ram Bahadur KC, NDRRMA

Mr. KC presented the overall status and process of formulating the MPRP, 2082. He shared that the National Taskforce for this purpose was officially formed on 2081 Chaitra 19, with the Joint Secretary at the NDRRMA, as the coordinator. The taskforce included members from key ministries and included a representative from the security forces and various departments who is directly involved in disaster risk reduction and management. He informed that the taskforce quickly initiated its engagement process. On 2082 Baisakh 8, letters were dispatched to all lead and co-lead agencies, security forces, provincial governments, and other concerned bodies requesting necessary inputs and updates. On the same day, invitations were also sent out for the first task force meeting, especially targeting missing leads and co-leads.

Mr. KC explained that several meetings were then conducted to engage with these agencies. He emphasized that a major interactive session with leads and co-leads was held on 2082 Baisakh 14, and this was followed by a dedicated task force meeting on 2082 Baisakh 15. In that meeting, the taskforce decided to form a dedicated five-member drafting committee to lead the process of compiling and integrating all the collected inputs into a draft action plan. The draft was developed collaboratively and shared regularly within the group comprising taskforce members, lead and co-lead representatives for feedback and refinement. He highlighted key interactions that fed into the planning process. In 2082 Baisakh 24, an interaction was organized focusing on the role of communication in managing monsoon-induced disasters. Additionally, in 2082 Baisakh 26, the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, together with the Early Recovery Cluster, hosted a discussion that contributed further insights into the planning process.

Mr. KC referred to the 31st meeting of the Executive Committee, which acknowledged the heavy losses from past monsoon-induced disasters and directed to develop Monsoon Preparedness and Response in accordance with DHM forecast. He then discussed the about the Secretary-Level Meeting held on 2082 Jestha 5, which made two key decisions that mandated the Ministry of Home Affairs and NDRRMA to urgently consult with all relevant stakeholders, line ministries, UN agencies, development partners, private sector, civil society, and municipal associations to finalize the plan. Also, this meeting mandated all agencies to ensure that logistics, early warning systems, and communication mechanisms under their jurisdiction were ready and in place.

He shared that the core drafting work for the plan was nearly completed. Only a few elements remained such as incorporating DHM’s official monsoon forecast expected by 2082 Jestha 7, along with finalizing certain topics and annexes. He informed that ongoing discussions with civil society, and other stakeholders were being conducted to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive plan. Mr. KC mentioned that various discussions would be organized to collect feedback and refine the plan before it is submitted to the Executive Committee for approval, after which editing, design, and publication will follow.

Mr. KC detailed the major components of the draft MPRP, 2082. The first section focuses on the introductory part where it included its objectives, forecasting potential risks by analyzing past data, assigning responsibilities to relevant institutions, and defining coordinated actions for effective response. He emphasized that trend analysis revealed an annual average of 842 monsoon-related disaster events, floods, landslides, lightning, and heavy rain, resulting in around 274 deaths (including missing persons). A rising trend in both disaster events and fatalities has been observed over the past decade.

He presented detailed statistics from 2072 to 2081 B.S., where landslides accounted for 3,532 incidents and 1,296 deaths, while floods caused 1,614 incidents and 539 deaths. Lightning and heavy rain also caused significant damage, with 385 and 97 deaths respectively. In total, 8,418 monsoon-related disaster events occurred in the past ten years, leading to 2,317 deaths, 419 missing persons, and widespread damages to infrastructure, livestock, and homes.

Reflecting on 2081, Mr. KC reviewed lessons learned from that last year’s monsoon. A total of 2,138 disaster incidents occurred, resulting in 495 deaths, 66 missing persons, and 522 injuries. He shared specific cases such as the record-breaking rainfall (624mm) in Dodhara, Kanchanpur on 2081 Ashadh 24 the highest in 77 years. He acknowledged that although infrastructure damage was significant, early warning systems were effective in preventing large-scale human casualties. Another major incident occurred on 2081 Ashadh 28 when two buses fell into the Trishuli River due to landslide debris, leading to 24 confirmed deaths. He also highlighted a glacial lake outburst on 2081 Shrawan 32 in Thame, which devastated local settlements. A special taskforce was immediately formed to assess the damage and ongoing risk.

He further reported that extreme weather events between Ashwin 10–13, 2081 brought heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides. During this period alone, 2,435 disaster incidents were recorded, with 535 deaths and over 6,000 damaged cattle sheds. This highlighted the increasingly volatile nature of monsoon-related hazards and the need for robust preparedness.

From these experiences, Mr. KC emphasized several critical lessons. He urged stronger coordination among responsible agencies and stressed the need for timely and effective warning dissemination, especially for at risk areas. He highlighted the importance of continuous monitoring and role clarity, along with ensuring the readiness of emergency operation centers and security agencies.He also noted that the official DHM monsoon forecast for 2082  is still not officially released, but preliminary indications from SASCOF suggested higher-than-average rainfall and temperatures compared to the previous year. This makes readiness all the more critical.

Mr. KC outlined the specific responsibilities of various institutions. He explained that federal ministries and the NDRRMA are expected to take the lead in coordination, while provincial and local governments must operationalize the plans at the ground level. He urged all agencies, including security forces and emergency operation centers, to maintain active readiness and efficient coordination mechanisms. The action plan also outlines the structure and duties of the Monsoon Response Command Post and includes responsibilities for the private sector, media, and civil society organizations to ensure a whole-of-society approach to disaster preparedness and response.

Mr. KC shared a detailed overview of the Monsoon Response Command Post, emphasizing its critical role in leading and coordinating Nepal’s disaster response efforts during the monsoon season. He began by explaining the composition of the Command Post, highlighting that it is chaired by the Executive Chief of the NDRRMA, who acts as the coordinator. Other members include high-level representatives and directors from key ministries and departments and Representatives from the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and the National Investigation Department as integral members. He noted that the Chief of the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) serves as the Member-Secretary, and that subject matter experts may be invited as necessary to support the post's functions.

He elaborated on the key responsibilities of the Command Post, noting that it leads the overall response during monsoon-induced disasters and issues directives to ensure effective response mechanisms are in place. He shared that the Command Post is established at the onset of the monsoon and remains operational throughout the season, continuously monitoring weather conditions. Mr. KC urged that weather forecasting and the dissemination of early warnings be prioritized, as these actions are fundamental in reducing the risk of disasters. Additionally, the Command Post is responsible for verifying whether preparedness activities, as outlined in the national plan, have been completed by the concerned agencies, and for taking necessary corrective actions where gaps are identified.

He emphasized the role of the Command Post in coordinating and leading the mobilization of resources, managing information flow during disasters, and assessing potential damages and affected populations. Furthermore, he highlighted its responsibility in informing relevant sectoral agencies about the type and quantity of relief materials required and instructing them to prepare accordingly. He also mentioned that the Central Command Post would provide necessary advice to the Executive Committee and Council, while Provincial, District, and Local Command Posts would play similar advisory roles within their jurisdictions.

Mr. KC then moved on to the Sectoral and Institutional MPRP, beginning with the role of the NDRRMA. He outlined the twelve sectoral clusters and their respective lead and co-lead agencies responsible for preparedness and response. For example, he explained that the Logistics Cluster is led by the Ministry of Home Affairs and co-led by the World Food Programme (WFP), while the Early Recovery Cluster is led by the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration and co-led by UNDP. Similarly, clusters addressing Health and Nutrition, WASH, Shelter, Food Security, Protection, Education, and Emergency Communication involve a range of government ministries and international partners such as WHO, UNICEF, IFRC, IOM, FAO, Save the Children, and UNHCR. He also presented the preparedness and response plans of other relevant agencies, including the DHM, the Department of Water Resources and Irrigation, and the Nepal Electricity Authority. He noted the importance of timely data and functional infrastructure in these sectors during disaster events.

Mr. KC elaborated on the security agencies' roles in monsoon preparedness and response. He detailed the contributions of the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force, Nepal, citing their responsibilities in terms of manpower, rescue equipment, and deployment plans. For instance, he highlighted that Nepal Police has over 10,000 personnel on standby for rescue operations and has positioned disaster-specialized units across provinces. He emphasized that the Armed Police Force has mobilized more than 8,000 trained personnel, divers, boats, and heavy equipment, and is equipped with relief material containers and mass casualty vehicles.

He further acknowledged the crucial support provided by the Nepal Red Cross Society and other humanitarian organizations. He shared that the Red Cross has prepositioned relief materials and maintains a trained volunteer database across the country, ensuring a rapid response capacity during emergencies.

Mr. KC highlighted the importance of robust coordination mechanisms by presenting the detailed contact information of disaster focal persons at various levels from ministries and departments to provincial and district administrations, as well as security agencies. He emphasized the need for clear lines of communication before and during monsoon-related disasters.

In the annex section, he drew attention to the comprehensive data compiled on emergency stockpiles and skilled manpower across different clusters and regions. This includes stock details for food, health, shelter, and communication clusters; available manpower for emergency response; and details of skilled personnel and logistical readiness. He also outlined the departmental data from agencies such as the Department of Roads and Department of Water Resources and Irrigation, including information about road supervision offices and Bailey bridge deployments.

Lastly, he presented data on emergency response funds available at federal, provincial, and district levels, along with a list of essential relief items that must be managed immediately to support at least 10% of the expected caseload during monsoon disasters.

Throughout the presentation, Mr. KC requested all stakeholders to internalize their roles and responsibilities and to work collaboratively in anticipation of the monsoon season. He concluded by stressing that proactive planning, effective coordination, and timely resource mobilization are imperative to minimizing the impact of monsoon-induced disasters and protecting lives and property across the country.

3. Open Floor Discussion

Dr.  Thapa initiated the Open Floor Discussion by providing an update on the recent flood and landslide that occurred in Til Village on May 15, 2025. The incident was assessed by a study committee led by the Deputy Mayor of Namkha Rural Municipality in Humla district. The affected area consists of a population of 32 individuals, 21 women, 9 men, and 2 children highlighting a notably lower male population in the village. Initially, the rural municipality’s study identified the event as a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), but more recent assessments suggest a different cause either a Thermokarst Flood or a Permafrost-Release Flood. The disaster caused significant damage to infrastructure, including the Til Gaun Hydropower Project (15 MW) and associated power station, resulting in an estimated financial loss of NPR 1.20 crore. Additional damages included the approach road to the Gumba and the Gumba itself, partial damage to 15 houses, destruction of 5 timber bridges, a water supply system, 60 ropani of farmland, and 4 irrigation canals, leading to a total estimated economic loss of around NPR 2 crore. Notably, this event occurred while the country was hosting the international Sagarmatha Sambad dialogue.

Dr. Thapa emphasized that all relevant inputs from the discussion should be incorporated into the MPRP 2082. He also urged participants to continue sharing suggestions and feedback through DPNet’s virtual discussion platform.

Mr. Shankar Prasad Koirala, Former Secretary, Government of Nepal

Mr. Koirala explained that the Pre-Monsoon Workshop was initiated by DPNet around 2008 or 2009, and that the Ministry of Home Affairs actively participated in it from the beginning. He shared his experience of how the Ministry of Home Affairs gradually took ownership of the workshop, organizing it at the central level and in all five development regions.

He also reflected on his experience of finalizing the disaster strategy within a tight timeframe of just three months. Mr. Koirala noted that in the early years of the workshop, there was participation from ministers and the chiefs of security agencies. However, he observed that such high-level engagement has declined in recent years. He stressed that the participation of Chief District Officers (CDOs) from the Kathmandu Valley and other responsible officials is essential to ensure the effectiveness of such workshops.

Emphasizing the importance of coordination, especially in the field of disaster management, Mr. Koirala urged NDRRMA to enhance coordination mechanisms and to regularly organize similar discussions with disaster focal persons and cluster leads. He highlighted the need to minimize misinformation and disinformation during disasters, referencing instances experienced in the past year. He recommended that NDRRMA organize similar discussions in all seven provinces, involving the respective CDOs of all districts within the province. He further requested NDRRMA to support CDOs in border areas by facilitating dialogue with authorities of neighboring countries to address cross-border disaster issues.

Mr. Dinanath Bhandari, Technical Advisor, DPNet Nepal

Mr. Bhandari pointed out several typographical and language errors present in the draft version of the MPRP 2082. He emphasized that these issues must be resolved before the document's official release. He also stressed the importance of incorporating emerging multi-hazard risks such as heatwaves and loo (hot, dry wind) into the plan. Additionally, he noted the need to clearly define the roles of each tier of government, specifying which level of government should take responsibility based on the scale of the disaster. This clarity, he said, is essential for effective implementation and increased accountability.

Mr. Bhandari further recommended that the role of the Health Emergency Operation Center (HEOC) in responding to health-related hazards should be addressed in the plan. He concluded by emphasizing that legacy systems and behavioral patterns must evolve to meet the demands of disaster situations more effectively.

Dr. S.P. Kalauni, Chairperson, Association of International NGOs in Nepal (AIN)

Dr. Kalauni emphasized that disasters remain one of the most pressing concerns for humanitarian actors, yet their unpredictable nature makes preparedness inherently challenging though no less essential, as preparedness is often lifesaving. He highlighted the importance of taking an inclusive and broad-based territorial approach to disaster response and preparedness, involving all stakeholders. He shared that over 45% of AIN's member organizations are engaged in disaster-related work and to strengthen efforts in this domain, AIN has established a dedicated Working Group on Disaster Management and Climate Change.

Dr. Kalauni highlighted a major challenge faced is the lack of inter-agency coordination within the government. While I/NGOs organizational workflow involves coordination with the Social Welfare Council and the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizens, disaster-related work necessitates engagement with additional bodies such as the Ministry of Home Affairs and the NDRRMA. This, he noted, often creates administrative and procedural complications and suggested to address these coordination gaps, Dr. Kalauni recommended that appropriate legal provisions and institutional mechanisms be introduced to streamline collaboration between INGOs and the various government agencies involved in disaster risk management.

Mr. Jagannath Prasad Kurmi, Former President, National Community Disaster Management Committee (NCDMC) / Member, DPNet Nepal

Mr. Kurmi highlighted that although numerous plans and policies have been formulated for disaster risk reduction and development, their implementation remains unsatisfactory. He strongly urged for the effective implementation of the Draft MPRP 2082.

Reflecting on his experience, he noted the inefficiency in infrastructure specifically citing the prolonged travel time between Kathmandu and Butwal due to issues in the road network. He emphasized that such critical infrastructure concerns must be addressed promptly.

Mr. Kurmi stressed the importance of coordination among government and semi-government agencies, such as the Nepal Electricity Authority, Nepal Telecom, and the Water Supply Corporation, for sustainable development. He pointed out that effective development cannot occur without proper inter-agency collaboration.

He reminded stakeholders that responsibility lies with everyone and that all plans and policies must be truly community-oriented. While documents such as the Local Adaptation Plan of Action (LAPA) and the Local Disaster and Climate Resilience Planning (LDCRP) exist, he noted with concern that these are often not implemented. He advocated for the implementation of such documents in a manner that addresses the real problems faced by communities.

Further, Mr. Kurmi mentioned that even disaster-affected communities are charged for electricity meters by the Nepal Electricity Authority, highlighting the need for better coordination and community-sensitive service provision. He also advocated for the recognition of snakebite incidents as disasters, recommending that those affected be provided with appropriate relief.

Ms. Luna Khadka, DRR and HEA Lead, World Vision International Nepal / Coordinator, AIN Task Group on Disaster Management and Climate Change (AINTGDMCC)

Ms. Khadka expressed concern over the Draft MPRP 2082, stating that although it incorporates lessons learned from past disasters and identifies key gaps, it lacks concrete recommendations for future action. She noted that while roles and responsibilities have been assigned to various authorities, the monitoring mechanism remains undefined. She recommended that provincial and local governments be provided with clear, actionable responsibilities, and that each concerned authority be well-informed of its mandate. Ms. Khadka emphasized the importance of inter-cluster and intra-cluster coordination, as well as the need for efficient, non-duplicated information channels. She further stressed the necessity of mainstreaming protection issues within the disaster management framework and ensuring that the protection cluster's roles are well-defined and implemented.

Moreover, she suggested monitoring the effectiveness of early warning messages disseminated by service providers like NTC and Ncell, to ensure they reach the intended communities in a timely manner.

Mr. Ramesh Dhakal, Representative, NARMIN

Mr. Ramesh Dhakal raised a critical issue related to administrative leadership gaps at the municipality and rural municipality levels, particularly after the end of the fiscal year. He noted that such gaps often hinder effective operations during disaster events. He stressed the urgency of addressing this issue to ensure that local governments are fully functional and capable of managing disaster response and recovery operations efficiently.

Mr. Deepak Poudel, Advisor, DPNet Nepal

Mr. Poudel shared that exposure, hazard, and sensitivity are higher this year than last year. There needs to be close coordination between DHM, NDRRMA, and CDOs of each district. Based on the seasonal outlook that provides district-wise forecasts, coordination must be done with respective district CDOs for effective preparation for relief and rescue.

He pointed out that past data shows 560 deaths last year, which is controversial since it was assumed that deaths were fewer during monsoon. As the seasonal outlook is updated weekly, every 3 days, and daily, updates should be considered regularly and preparedness should be made based on catchment areas of districts, with proper assignment of boats and close coordination with CDOs.

Even though the Terai and lowlands are currently less impacted, they should still be considered this year. He also raised concern that all three highways connecting the capital are vulnerable and should be addressed by the Divisional Road Office, DHM, and NDRRMA. He emphasized the importance of mobilizing private and non-government sectors.

Mr. Ramchandra Neupane, Advisor, DPNet Nepal

Mr. Neupane pointed out the portfolio clash and coordination gap between federal, provincial, district, and local governments. He emphasized the need for a response plan that defines which level of government should manage which level of disaster. The documents prepared at the federal level still do not address the mandate of federalism. He stated that although the NDRRMA Chief is designated as the Incident Commander, the role should involve giving instructions rather than only issuing press releases.

Mr. Dhruba Bahadur Khadka, Former Joint Secretary, Government of Nepal

Mr. Khadka shared that the workforce included in the MPRP should consist only of trained personnel capable of responding to monsoon-induced disasters. He observed that relief distribution is duplicated across all three tiers of government and the non-government sector, while recovery and reconstruction remain unsolved due to funding issues. He emphasized the need to mobilize volunteers and maintain storage of relief materials. He recommended including the database of volunteers and stored materials in the MPRP to make implementation easier.

Mr. Pitambar Aryal, Advisor, DPNet Nepal

Mr. Aryal noted that it would have been better if the discussion had been held after the official release of the Monsoon Outlook to provide a broader regional perspective backed by technical data. He emphasized that urban disasters like inundation should be addressed through drainage cleaning which is small interventions with high importance. He stressed that protocols should not hinder the mobilization of armed and security forces. He also mentioned that canals like the Gandak are filled with silt and boulders and need cleaning, including on the Indian side, which should be facilitated by the federal government.

Mr. Govinda Rimal, Advisor, DPNet Nepal

Mr. Rimal shared that roles and responsibilities in the draft MPRP are still duplicated and should be clearly defined. Learnings and gaps should be addressed properly before the official release of MPRP 2082.

Janak Karki, SAP Palcha

He emphasized that each local government should focus on preparation and must have basic equipment such as life jackets and ropes ready for rescue. The disaster management committee is currently more post-disaster oriented, but preparation is equally important. Sharing the experience of September 2024 rainfall, he mentioned rural road networks being damaged and causing landslides. These impacts can be reduced by constructing proper drainage systems.

Ms. Chetana Loksum, Technical Advisor, DPNet Nepal

Ms. Loksum highlighted that mental health issues are not included in the draft MPRP 2082. She recommended integrating mental health across all disaster phases; pre, during, and post along with MHPSP, mobilization, and training of community-based psychosocial workers and counselors. She emphasized that mental health should not be ignored.

Mr. Bimal Gadal, DRR Professional

Mr. Gadal shared that during a mock drill in 2024 in Mahakali, a woman was swept away by the river, and participants were unable to rescue her, but a local person succeeded. This highlighted the need for mobilizing local volunteers and maintaining a volunteer roster. He suggested adopting Forecast-Based Financing pioneered by the German Red Cross and customizing parametric insurance for floods (like in Peru) for Nepal. He also pointed to automated drainage systems in Singapore as a potential model for Nepal.

Mr. Shyam Babu Kattel, President, NCDMC

Mr. Kattel pointed out the coordination gap between the three tiers of government and said it should be addressed soon. He emphasized that programs should not be Kathmandu-centered and must reach the provincial level. He recommended organizing a virtual meeting with CDOs before finalizing the draft MPRP 2082.

Dr. Basanta Raj Adhikari, Technical Advisor, DPNet Nepal

Dr. Adhikari shared that the draft MPRP is again more response-focused and similar to past years' plans. He emphasized that preparedness should be location-specific rather than following a blanket approach.

Mr. Binod Ghimire, Private Sector Representative

Mr. Ghimire stated that the private sector is working at the ground level with cash vouchers, warehouse management, and converting cash to goods. He urged for finalization of the previously drafted Cash Transfer Plan of Action, which would formally include the private sector in disaster management.

Dr. Giri Panthi, Central Management Committee Member, Rural Reconstruction Nepal (RRN)

Dr. Panthi explained that drought is also part of the monsoon and needs to be considered in response planning. He noted unusual rainfall in Mustang, a rain-shadow area, and emphasized the importance of such anomalies. He suggested introducing alternative farming methods in areas prone to inundation and including agriculture insurance in the plan.

4. Remarks

Remarks by Chief Guest: Hon'ble Rupa B.K., State Minister for Forests and Environment

Hon. State Minister B.K. remarked that the workshop is highly contextual, insightful, and of great importance. She expressed her best wishes for the successful implementation of the MPRP 2082.

She highlighted that, as a landlocked country, Nepal is striving to deliver services and development to the doorsteps of the people through the federal structure with its three tiers of government. However, the country continues to face various unexpected disasters. In this context, she stated that the workshop would contribute to identifying effective measures for disaster preparedness.

She emphasized that the Draft MPRP 2082 should incorporate lessons learned from past disasters and shift its focus from rescue to preparedness. The plan should also be public-friendly and environmentally sound. As the Ministry of Forests and Environment is closely linked to disaster issues, she expressed happiness in being part of the program.

She stressed that the valuable feedback and insights shared during the workshop must be incorporated into the plan in a standardized and comprehensive manner to support practical implementation. She also highlighted the need to dispel the misconception that the government is inactive in disaster management, something that can be addressed through the effective execution of this plan.

Hon. Minister B.K. appreciated the use of virtual platforms for facilitating wider stakeholder participation and collecting suggestions. She requested that the feedback shared during the workshop also be conveyed to the Ministry of Forests and Environment, so that relevant inputs can be implemented where applicable. She concluded by wishing success to the CEO and expressed hope that the plan would be effectively implemented.

Closing Remarks by Mr. Dinesh Prasad Bhatt, Program Chair

Mr. Bhatta shared that the program was basically focused on gathering input from the non-government sector, as the government sector is already involved in the task force formed to prepare MPRP 2082. He also mentioned that NDRRMA is regularly consulting with the government sector, with the next meeting scheduled in the presence of the Hon’ble Minister of Home Affairs. In order to increase ownership, NDRRMA is ready to conduct diverse discussions before finalizing any document.

He shared that for effective small interventions in the road network, NDRRMA is consulting with the Department of Roads for the use of dozers, and with the Rafting Association for the mobilization of extra rafting boats in coordination with the Armed Police Force. He stated that the forecast of above-normal rainfall and maximum seasonal temperatures are both alarming conditions, as they may remind us of extreme precipitation and the recent Til flood events. He emphasized the need for a proper dissemination mechanism for information and that decisions and actions must be based on such information to reduce impacts, such as in the case of the Simaltar accident, which highlighted the importance of proper coordination and cooperation.

He mentioned that 24-hour operation of the Local Emergency Operation Center (LEOC) is being considered, just as the District Emergency Operation Center (DEOC) is already activated for 24 hours. He thanked ICIMOD for conducting research on the Til Village flood and landslide and appreciated the effort of the Armed Police Force, who reached the affected area as government representatives and informed him with photographs. He shared that he had requested ICIMOD for quick preliminary research using satellite images, and the research outcome was presented within two days. A meeting was organized by the local government at the Til area, as shared earlier in the program. A school is being used as a temporary shelter, and it is very difficult to conduct research and damage assessments in such areas.

NDRRMA is mobilizing structural engineers, disaster risk specialists, geologists, and hydrologists. He stated that the MPRP should be comprehensive yet concise, likening it to the Bhagavad Gita, and should be made more compact where necessary. He also emphasized that local government is responsible, and he is closely observing the local government’s actions in the Til Village event. Referring again to the Til Village event, he stated that the local government and the District Disaster Management Committee are actively working, and that the NDRRMA expert team is mobilized. He added that he is not interested in helicopter visits or disaster tourism, but in actual problem-solving, as local and district-level authorities are capable of addressing the recent issues.

To make local governments more responsible for disaster management, warehouses are being established at the local level, and local volunteers are being trained by security forces. Disaster funds have been established in each district with appropriate funding before the end of the fiscal year. Discussions and cooperation will be conducted regularly by NDRRMA. Inter-agency coordination will be facilitated through proper collaboration. He stated that if there is a portfolio crash at the district level, he is ready to facilitate resolution.

NDRRMA is organizing meetings with CDOs of each district, district security professionals, provincial-level authorities, and all 753 local levels. Lastly, he thanked all participants, saying the issues raised during the program are of high importance and will be included in the draft plan. He thanked everyone for their voluntary and active participation and closed the event