Integrated Settlements Developed after the Mw 7.8 Gorkha-Nepal Earthquake: Lessons Learned and Future Perspectives

Abstract

The Mw 7.8 Gorkha-Nepal earthquake on April 25, 2015, killed more than 8,900 people and caused economic losses estimated at approximately USD 9.4 billion. In response, the Government of Nepal established the National Reconstruction Authority (NRA), which was mandated to oversee all reconstruction activities. This research was conducted in NRA-build 12 Integrated Settlements (ISs) across four districts (Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Sindhupalchok, and Gorkha) in central Nepal. Field visits and interactions with earthquake-affected beneficiaries (residents) were undertaken to assess current geo-hazard conditions (landslides and floods), identify emerging challenges, evaluate beneficiary satisfaction, and document best-practice examples of integrated settlements that could be replicated in other parts of the country. Most respondents expressed concerns regarding the lack of livelihood opportunities within their settlements, diffculties in observing cultural and traditional practices, and inadequate space within the buildings. As a result, beneficiaries have either locked their buildings and returned to their original locations or relocated elsewhere in search of more suitable alternatives. These deficiencies emerged primarily because most beneficiaries were not engaged in the major decision-making processes. Therefore, it is recommended that participatory approaches be adopted, involving federal, provincial, and local governments, donors, and local communities in designing integrated settlements to ensure long-term sustainability from inception to completion.