KATHMANDU: The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority estimates that 4.77 billion US dollars is required for reconstruction and rehabilitation following the floods in Rasuwa. Dr. Dharam Raj Uprety, executive chief of the authority, presented these findings during a meeting of the Law, Justice and Human Rights Committee.

According to the authority, the floods caused damages estimated at 408 billion rupees, with reconstruction costs projected at 723 billion rupees.

Immediately following the disaster, a 14-member technical team used drones to conduct a rapid damage and needs assessment, completing the report in 15 days. Dr. Uprety noted that this report serves as a foundation for seeking support from development partners and international organizations. The government disbursed 135 million rupees to affected local levels on the first day of the disaster.

Efforts to restore damaged roads and bridges are underway. Transportation has resumed on the Galchhi-Devighat-Dhungay-Trishuli section, and most of the Bidur-Betrawati road has been cleared. Additionally, three wire bridges have been installed, with two more in preparation. The authority aims to repair 20 suspension bridges by October, with five currently under repair and the tender process ongoing for the remaining 15.

The authority identified a need for temporary housing for 2,027 families across Nuwakot, Rasuwa, Dhading, and Chitwan. Surveys indicate that 80.6 percent of these families are willing to accept government assistance for temporary housing. However, only 25.3 percent of the families own land suitable for constructing temporary structures. Since 74.6 percent of the households consist of three to six members, housing designs will be tailored accordingly. Furthermore, 35 temporary learning centers have been established in the affected areas, though the authority noted that a lack of available land remains a challenge.