Identifying local needs for post-disaster recovery in Nepal

Abstract

Abstract This study uses the perspectives of disaster-affected people to examine local recovery needs. The household resettlement and early reconstruction practices in Barpak VDC following the 2015 earthquake in Nepal provide a case study. A qualitative approach is employed to collect and process data consisting of 114 semi-structured interviews with resettled households, six focus group discussions with villagers, interviews with community leaders, meetings with local government officials, and participant observations. Data suggest that resettled households want to stay at their temporary shelter site and make it a permanent residence. Despite the severe damage on properties, local recovery needs are diverse rather than simplistic in focusing on reconstruction. People prefer sustainable solutions to their needs: resettling to a safe location permanently, obtaining ownership of the land before building new houses, and having farmland and cash jobs that lead towards a productive lifestyle. Recovery needs in local communities are shaped by the actions that people can accomplish on their own, the resources that they anticipate will be provided, and the attainability of such resources. Increasing accountability of the domestic government for the earthquake-affected population is a significant measure to address local needs and promote recovery proceedings. This study demonstrates a consultative approach which is effective in assessing recovery needs in communities where stakeholder participation is limited.