KATHMANDU: The devastating floods in the Rasuwa-Bhote Koshi rivers on Aug. 26, 2026, have caused damages estimated at Rs 79.17 billion. According to a preliminary survey conducted by the National Planning Commission, the losses include Rs 69.57 billion to households and Rs 9.60 billion to businesses and establishments.
The floods impacted 6,817 households and 499 businesses across four districts, affecting a total population of 32,872. A total of 2,989 residential structures were completely destroyed. Among the affected districts, Nuwakot suffered the most, with 3,841 households impacted, followed by Rasuwa, Dhading, and Gorkha.
Land damage accounted for the largest financial loss, estimated at Rs 35.44 billion, involving 507.97 hectares belonging to 3,610 families. Additionally, construction costs for houses and land plots suffered losses of Rs 11.95 billion and Rs 13.26 billion, respectively. Of the 4,151 damaged building structures, 3,194 are reported to be beyond repair.
The agricultural sector also faced significant setbacks, with damages to crops, livestock, and stored food supplies totaling over Rs 55 million. Furthermore, vehicles sustained damages worth Rs 1.24 billion, while losses to precious, cultural, and archaeological items were estimated at Rs 5.02 billion.
In the business sector, wholesale and retail trade were the most affected, with 774 establishments impacted. The accommodation and food service sector followed with 337 affected establishments.
Regarding rehabilitation, the survey recorded the preferences of 3,067 families. About 30.62 percent expressed a desire to relocate to government-provided land, while 19.24 percent opted for government-provided collective housing. Approximately 25.99 percent of the families indicated they wish to return to their original locations.
The National Planning Commission deployed 58 teams and 156 personnel across 15 local levels to collect data from 7,316 households and businesses. Officials noted that further detailed assessments are required for reconstruction efforts.
