Disaster risk and response in the Himalayan region

The Himalayan region stretches across several South Asian countries and its glaciers and annual monsoon rains provide a water source and way of life for millions of people. However, the area is prone to various disasters that disrupt these communities, the severity and frequency of which are increasing, partly due to climate change. It is therefore crucial to consider resilience against disasters in development planning. This paper focuses on policy challenges in Nepal and Bhutan, with insight on potential solutions. Coping with disaster risk will require a holistic policy approach. It should include elements across multiple policy areas such as strong institutional frameworks, education, adequate budget and financing options and technology. Strengthening policies towards disaster-resilient development is critical.