Impact of Urbanization and Climate Change on Urban Flooding: A case of the Kathmandu Valley

Future climate change combined with current urbanization levels will significantly increase pluvial flooding in the Kathmandu Valley, with potential for a 40% rise in flood volume under extreme rainfall events. This projection underscores the inadequacy of existing drainage infrastructure designed for present climatic conditions to handle future scenarios. The study employed a dual quantitative and qualitative approach, utilizing tools like RClimdex (a statistical downscaling model) and PCSWMM, alongside Intensity Duration Frequency (IDF) curve analysis based on Gumbel distribution. By examining the interplay between urban imperviousness and extreme rainfall, the research highlights critical vulnerabilities in urban drainage systems, offering a data-driven warning for infrastructure planning in rapidly developing regions.

Pradhan-Salike, I., & Raj Pokharel, J. (2017). Impact of Urbanization and Climate Change on Urban Flooding: A case of the Kathmandu Valley. Journal of Natural Resources and Development, 56–66. https://doi.org/10.5027/jnrd.v7i0.07