More than 83,000 residents in Bardiya district could be affected by floods this monsoon if heavy rainfall occurs, according to an assessment by the District Disaster Management Committee.

Based on this year’s weather forecasts, Lumbini Province is expected to receive the highest amount of rainfall in the country, with Bardiya district considered the most vulnerable within the province.

The district is home to major rivers such as the Karnali and Babai, in addition to numerous other streams that frequently flood during the monsoon season.

Surendra Paudel, chief district officer and coordinator of the District Disaster Management Committee in Bardiya, said the projection is based on damage records dating back to 1983.

“We’ve prepared for potential monsoon-related disasters, including both rescue efforts and post-disaster relief measures,” he said.

All eight local units in the district have mobilised for preparedness. Bardiya has experienced severe floods in previous years, notably in 1983, 1994, 2001, 2014, 2017, and 2022.

More than 50 people lost their lives during those disasters. The most devastating flood occurred in July 2014, when over 93,000 people were affected and 32 lives were lost as the Babai River swept away entire villages, including Rampur Tapu and Dhungra.

In preparation, mock drills involving the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police have been conducted. The authorities have also set up early warning systems, which include sirens and community teams to advise residents of vulnerable settlements to evacuate to safer locations in advance.

Officials say efforts are ongoing to ensure a rapid response if the situation deteriorates.