In late September 2024, Nepal was hit by one of the heaviest monsoon rainfalls in recent decades, resulting in devastating floods and landslides across several provinces. Over the course of three days, relentless rainfall affected the Bagmati, Gandaki, Koshi, and Madhesh provinces, leading to over 220 fatalities and displacing more than 10,000 families. The continuous rain blocked major highways, destroyed essential infrastructure, and severely hindered rescue efforts. The aftermath highlighted not only the impact of environmental degradation on human health but also the critical need for a planetary health approach to disaster preparedness and response​. Although agencies like the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM) regularly issue accurate forecasts, authorities often fail to take proactive measures, leading to repeated tragic outcomes during the monsoon season. For instance, this year’s intense rainfall and subsequent floods in late September were anticipated, yet widespread damage and loss of life occurred, largely attributed to a lack of immediate response and effective disaster management.

Experts have criticized the government for underutilizing scientific data and early warnings, pointing to a long-standing pattern of neglecting risk assessments and preparedness measures. The increasing frequency and severity of these incidents reflect shifting monsoon patterns due to climate change, yet the government has been slow to adapt infrastructure and urban planning accordingly. For example, unplanned settlements, especially around Kathmandu's flood-prone areas, have worsened the effects of these weather events by disrupting natural drainage and reducing areas for water retention.

Furthermore, Nepal's disaster risk management plans often focus on reactive rather than preventive strategies, such as deploying rescue operations after incidents rather than relocating vulnerable communities or improving infrastructure beforehand. This ongoing cycle of response, without addressing root causes, highlights a systemic gap in trusting and acting on scientific evidence, which has sparked public frustration and criticism from climate experts and local communities alike.

The Role of Planetary Health in Disaster Management

Planetary health is a concept that emphasizes the interconnectedness of human well-being, environmental stability, and ecosystem sustainability. Nepal’s recent floods underscore this connection, as climate-induced events like floods and landslides threaten both lives and livelihoods. The current situation is a reminder that environmental degradation, from deforestation to unplanned urban expansion, amplifies disaster risks and leads to severe health impacts. For example, damaged sanitation systems raise the likelihood of outbreaks of diseases such as cholera and dengue fever.

Implementing a planetary health approach in Nepal means acknowledging and acting upon the links between environmental stewardship and public health. This includes preserving forests to stabilize soil and reduce landslide risks, managing urban growth to protect natural drainage areas, and investing in green infrastructure to mitigate flood impacts. By prioritizing the health of ecosystems, Nepal can build resilience against the rising threats posed by climate change and ensure a healthier future for its people.

Why More Evidence Generation is Crucial?

Nepal has made strides in improving disaster forecasting, but gaps remain in how this information translates into action. Evidence generation is a key component of disaster risk reduction and should focus on the following areas: