Rolpa and Bajura settlements face imminent displacement due to landslide risks

Communities in Nepal's Rolpa and Bajura districts are under immediate threat of displacement as rising landslide and flood risks endanger settlements. Heavy rainfall has intensified the danger in areas that recently suffered significant loss of life and property.

In Rolpa, hundreds of households in Sunchhahari and Thawang rural municipalities are at risk. Continuous rain has created cracks and instability in the hillsides. Settlements like Seram and Ghusbang in Sunchhahari-1 are particularly vulnerable, with mud and debris flowing towards homes. Dhani Man Roka, the ward chairman, stated, "After the overnight rain, mud and debris flowed towards the settlement, while the ground below the village has also been torn open by landslides. It is no longer safe to stay there."

Seram, home to over 100 households, has seen mudslide debris reach some yards. Two women were killed weeks ago by a landslide from Gathan hill while herding cattle. Ghusbang, also in Sunchhahari-1 with 100 households, has experienced damage to houses and a suspension bridge leading to a micro-hydropower plant. Communication disruptions have hindered a full assessment.

In Bajura, 58 houses in Tamsu, Tribeni Rural Municipality, are at high risk after a landslide destroyed two homes. Local authorities are compelled to consider relocating the affected population. Gam, in Sunchhahari Rural Municipality, also faces high landslide risk, with four people killed after recent rains triggered slides that buried two houses. A team led by the chief district officer has concluded that some settlements may require relocation.

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After the overnight rain, mud and debris flowed towards the settlement, while the ground below the village has also been torn open by landslides. It is no longer safe to stay there.