Experts highlight the urgent need for South Asian countries to collaborate in the face of extreme rainfall causing devastating floods that transcend national borders.
Recent heavy rains in Nepal and the border of India and Bangladesh have resulted in tragic losses, underscoring the vulnerability of major South Asian cities to flooding. A World Bank report warns of potential economic losses amounting to $215 billion annually by 2030.
However, distrust and unresolved disputes hamper regional cooperation. Political differences have hindered coordinated efforts, leading to blame games in times of crisis.
Despite challenges, experts emphasize the importance of early warnings and preparedness to mitigate flood impacts. Real-time data sharing and joint initiatives, like the one addressing the Koshi and Karnali rivers, offer a glimpse of effective regional cooperation.
As climate change escalates weather events, countries must align adaptation strategies and pool resources to manage shared disasters collectively. It is crucial for South Asian nations to prioritize cooperation for a more resilient future.