Tribhuvan University’s Institute of Forestry has shared the major findings of its nationally prioritized research project titled “Flood-induced Migration and Adaptation Strategies in Chure-Terai Region of Nepal” (Nepali title: “नेपालको चुरे तराई क्षेत्रमा बाढी उत्थानशीलताको लागि नीति र अभ्यास”). The team organized a discussion and information-sharing program with experts and stakeholders. The principal investigator is Associate Professor Dr. Menuka Maharjan from the Institute of Forestry, while co-investigators include Associate Professor Dr. Sudeep Thakuri from the Central Department of Environmental Science and Associate Professor Dr. Motilal Rijal from the Central Department of Geology.

The research focused on the Mohana-Khutiya and East Rapti watersheds in the Chure-Terai region. It revealed that monsoon floods cause massive loss of lives and property every year, severely affecting food security and the livelihoods of rural communities. To cope, farmers have adopted various alternative strategies such as traditional grain and seed storage practices, bio-engineering techniques in farming, and shifting cropping calendars. However, the study found that farmers have not benefited from insurance programs due to complicated technical standards, financial constraints, and cumbersome claim procedures.

The Chure-Terai region, which stretches from Nepal’s highly fertile plains to the fragile Chure hills, forms the foundation of the country’s agricultural economy. Yet it remains highly vulnerable to monsoon flooding because of excessive rainfall, deforestation, and changes in land use. According to principal investigator Dr. Menuka Maharjan, floods cause extensive damage to farmland, irrigation systems, roads, and storage facilities.

The research employed field observations, historical analysis, scientific methods, and data analysis. Valuable suggestions to further improve the quality of the study were provided by Prof. Dr. Ishwor Koirala (Director of the Research Directorate), Prof. Dr. Narendra Khanal (member of the National Priority Research Monitoring Committee), Dr. Thakur Silwal (Dean of the Institute of Forestry), Prof. Dr. Rajesh Kumar Rai (Director of the School of Forestry), and other participants during the discussion program.