Lessons Learned from the Bhotekoshi Flood

Editorial Summary: The flood of the Bhotekoshi River on September 26 has posed significant risks to schools, communities, and infrastructure in the districts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading. Preliminary reports indicate that approximately 17,000 children in these three districts have been affected. This disaster underscores the urgent need to prioritize child protection, school-level preparedness, and early warning systems in disaster management. Disasters pose risks to everyone; however, their impacts are often deeper and more lasting for children. Nepal is a country highly vulnerable to natural and climate-induced disasters. Earthquakes, floods, landslides, fires, and pandemics cause extensive damage to lives and property every year. Despite their severe consequences, post-disaster reconstruction in Nepal has not achieved expected progress. Experience shows that children are the most vulnerable group during disasters. Given the incomplete recovery from previous disasters, the devastating Bhotekoshi flood on September 26 has caused even greater damage, emphasizing the critical importance of prioritizing both disaster management and child protection in Nepal.

The flood has inflicted unimaginable damage on villages, homes, schools, roads, bridges, health facilities, government offices, and other infrastructure. Thousands of lives remain at risk, and it may take some time before the precise death toll is confirmed. It is particularly challenging to ascertain the number of children who have died in the floods. Schools located along the Trishuli River floodplain in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading districts have been completely destroyed. Accurate data on how many children were enrolled in these schools, how many are safe, and how many are missing is not yet available. Initial information suggests that around 17,000 children have been affected across these districts, indicating a high possibility of thousands of child deaths or disappearances. Following the Bhotekoshi flood, schools have played a vital role. Teachers, upon receiving timely warnings, can become the first line of defense by moving students to safe locations and thereby helping save lives. This disaster is not only a natural hazard but also a profound challenge to child safety, rights, mental health, education, family relationships, and their future.

Children are more physically, mentally, and socially dependent than adults. In sudden natural emergencies, they are often unable to recognize risks or move to safe places on their own. Another critical aspect of the Bhotekoshi flood is its sudden and rapid onset. Minutes of warning can mean the difference between life and death. For example, Trishuli Secondary School in Nuwakot saved hundreds of students by evacuating them immediately before the floodwaters arrived. This example highlights the importance of school-level early warning systems and teacher awareness. During disasters, children may become separated from their parents or families, and some may lose their mothers or fathers. Such children become vulnerable and may fall under the care of strangers. Consequently, identifying, tracing, reunifying, and providing protective services for children separated from their families after disasters is essential.