Kathmandu:The government of Nepal is taking steps to implement the decision of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which has agreed to provide support to the country.
According to National News Agency RSS, the FRLD held its first extraordinary meeting on Thursday, where it decided to grant approximately Rs 3 billion to Nepal. This assistance is intended for the relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction of communities affected by the devastating flood in the Bhotekoshi and Trishuli Rivers on August 26.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forest and Environment, through its spokesperson and alternate member of the Fund, Dr. Maheshwor Dhakal, stated that the proposal for receiving the funds would be submitted once a formal letter and procedural guidelines are received from the Fund’s Secretariat. Preparations for utilizing the funds will be coordinated between the Forest and Finance Ministries.
Dr. Dhakal highlighted that the proposal will focus on national priorities, local community needs, and gaps in resources and programmes at the government level. The aim is to mobilize funds for the rehabilitation of flood-affected communities. He also mentioned that various options for fund mobilization are available, including government accounts, national implementing entities, or internationally recognized organizations, with the method to be determined based on instructions from the Fund’s Secretariat.
The government’s request for immediate assistance was made through a joint letter by Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle and Minister for Agriculture, Forests and Environment Gita Chaudhary. Initial reports indicate that approximately 1,500 people have died, over 5,000 are missing, and more than 60,000 people from 15,000 families have been directly affected by the flood. The economic damage is estimated at around 2.70 billion US dollars, with 4.70 billion US dollars needed for reconstruction. The government also noted significant social, cultural, and non-economic losses.
Dr. Dhakal emphasized that the grants will be mobilized by identifying local community priorities and unmet needs, proposing programs for rehabilitation, and considering the efficiency of recognized institutions. The decision by the Loss and Damage Fund is seen as a precedent in providing timely support to developing countries at risk due to climate change impacts.