Urban Disaster Risk Reduction: A Case Study of Bhaktapur Flood 2018

Abstract

Nepal is a disastrous prone country and water induced disaster especially flood is most common in Nepal as creates problem every year. The urbanization has also led to increased urban flooding phenomenon and it is increasing in trend. The District of Bhaktapur is the smallest in the country and urbanization combined with rapid population increment in last few decades. The Hanumante River flows from middle of Bhaktapur District and connect with all four municipalities. The catchment area of the Hanumante River is around 97sq.km. Out of 119 sq. km, it carries around 88 percent of water from Bhaktapur. The present thesis research is based on primary and secondary data. The data is gathered from flood affected area of Bhaktapur, Suryabinayak and Madhyapur Thimi Municipalities and from concerned offices. The data is collected from open and closed ended interview questions. The data analysis is triangulated. The secondary data offered insight on sources and for causes and impacts. The primary data is received from field survey and observation. The stakeholders are aware of roles and responsibilities the flood. However, affected people have limited understanding and knowledge about the flood and remain in fear of flood. The major cause of flood is incessant rain in Bhaktapur. However, increased urbanization and lack of proper planning, encroachment of river are additional cause of concern in the study area which can be predicted and mitigated with available information, tools and techniques.