Bridging Policy, Institutions and Technology: A Comparative Perspective on Earthquake Disaster Management in Nepal

Abstract

Nepal’s high seismic risk, exacerbated by its location along the collision boundary of the Indian and Eurasian Plates, necessitates robust earthquake disaster management systems, as evidenced by historical events like the 2015 Gorkha earthquake. This study evaluates Nepal’s current policy and institutional frameworks, identifying critical gaps in implementation, technological adoption, and community engagement. We analyze the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act 2017 and assess the roles of key institutions such as the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), revealing persistent challenges in coordination, building code enforcement, and early warning systems. Comparative case studies of Japan and Mexico highlight the potential of advanced technologies, such as IoT-based seismic monitoring and AI-driven early warning systems, which could be adapted to Nepal’s context. Our findings underscore the need for stronger policy enforcement, integrated technological solutions, and localized community preparedness programs. The research contributes to disaster resilience literature by proposing actionable strategies to bridge the gap between policy intent and practical implementation, particularly in resource-constrained settings. The recommendations emphasize the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration and context-specific innovations to mitigate seismic risks in Nepal’s rapidly urbanizing landscape.