Build Back Safer, Not Just Faster

The Bhotekoshi disaster has sent shockwaves through Nepal. Floodwaters and landslides have swept through Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Chitwan, killing hundreds and leaving thousands still unaccounted for. Homes have been destroyed, roads and bridges washed away, and hydropower projects and other critical infrastructure badly damaged. The economic loss is already estimated at more than Rs 200 billion. The government has responded quickly, deploying the full weight of the state to deal with an unimaginable level of tragedy. The Nepali Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force and other government agencies are involved in rescue and relief operations. Saving lives and helping survivors must remain the immediate priority. But as the emergency response moves toward recovery, another challenge has emerged that cannot be ignored: how to ensure that the money, supplies and other assistance coming into the country actually reach the people who need them. The response from both within Nepal and abroad has been encouraging. The Prime Minister’s Natural Disaster Relief Fund reportedly received more than Rs 5 billion within just four days of the disaster. India, China, the United States and several other nations have offered help, while international organisations, political parties, businesses, civil society groups and ordinary citizens have also contributed donations. However, a large flow of donations can create problems. Reports of unscrupulous individuals trying to exploit the situation have already raised concerns that some donations could end up in the wrong hands. Some individuals within the government apparatus could also misappropriate funds, making transparency and coordination essential.