KATHMANDU, APRIL 29

The Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched a USD 1.296 million project to strengthen urban resilience to climate risks in Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City.

The project, titled "Smart Buildings and Green Infrastructure for Improved Human Security and Sustainable Development," is part of UNDP's global Climate Promise initiative and aims to address rising urban heat and climate vulnerabilities.

The launch event was led by Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Toru Maeda and UNDP Nepal Resident Representative Kyoko Yokosuka.

According to the organisers, Nepal is experiencing warming at nearly twice the global average, with cities like Dhangadhi facing extreme heat, often exceeding 40°C during summer months. Rapid urbanisation, declining green spaces and limited energy-efficient infrastructure have further intensified climate risks, particularly for low-income communities and outdoor workers.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Maeda reaffirmed Japan's commitment to supporting climate resilience in Nepal, expressing confidence that the project would help address extreme heat through integrated urban solutions. He also noted that the initiative coincides with the 70th anniversary of Nepal–Japan diplomatic relations.

UNDP said the project will promote measures such as thermal retrofitting of public buildings, restoration of urban wetlands and nature-based cooling solutions. These approaches are expected to be scalable and replicable in other cities facing similar challenges.

The initiative is expected to directly benefit around 4,000 people, with at least half being women, while contributing to long-term efforts to build inclusive and climate-resilient urban systems in Nepal.