Great Himalayan Research and Consult (GHRC), a consulting partner of UN-Habitat in Nepal, conducted Baseline Survey, City-Wide Assessment (CWA), and Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA) of Lamkichuha municipality- as a part of Cities4Women project in 2024. The GHRC team visited the municipality in September and November to carry out various studies. During these visits, the field team at Lamkichuha Municipality (including UN-Habitat Urban Planner/Designer and social mobilizers from Sundar Nepal, local implementation partner) provided extensive support to the GHRC team, assisting with identifying key locations, mobilizing community members, facilitating discussions with ward chairs and stakeholders, and ensuring smooth coordination throughout the fieldwork.

Baseline Survey, including municipal capacity gap assessment, was conducted between September 15 and 17, 2024. Various research methods were used, such as desk-based document reviews, structured surveys, and qualitative approaches including Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). The Baseline Report provides a detailed evaluation of gender-responsive approaches and climate resilience in urban planning within Lamkichuha Municipality. The study notes positive changes attributed to women-led leadership, increasing women's voice and participation. However, significant gaps have been identified, including limited community participation, absence of gender-inclusive policies, inadequate public awareness of climate resilience, and insufficient knowledge-sharing systems. Recommendations include developing gender-responsive urban planning guidelines, capacity-building training for municipal officials, and establishing knowledge-sharing frameworks between institutions.

Figure 1: KII with Municipal Planning Section Head; Group Discussion and Consultation with Municipal Council Members

Between November 11 and 15, 2024, the GHRC team conducted CWA and CRVA of the various open spaces of the municipality. CWA was carried out across all 10 wards of Lamkichuha Municipality to evaluate accessibility, facility, quality, and infrastructure status of public open spaces in the context of urban planning and community needs. A medium list of potential locations, prepared in advance through consultations with ward chairs and the field team, served as the foundation for the assessment. CWA applied a comprehensive and participatory evaluation strategy, utilizing the HerCity Tool, drone surveys, GIS analysis, and site inspections, along with KIIs. Common issues identified are inadequate drainage systems, poor access roads, and insufficient basic amenities. Recommendations include improving policy and management frameworks, expanding essential infrastructure, developing participatory management plans, and enhancing public safety through eco-friendly infrastructure and security facilities.

To assess climate-related risks and vulnerabilities of 8 short-listed sites, CRVA incorporated a blend of methods, such as comprehensive literature reviews, drone imagery analysis, in-depth field interviews, GIS mapping, and visual site inspections. Areas near the suspended bridge over the Rora River (ward 2) and Byawasthit Nagar Krishi (ward 3) are identified as highly vulnerable to flooding. Practical solutions such as constructing flood barriers, improving drainage infrastructure, and planting trees have been recommended to mitigate these risks. Additional recommendations include community engagement programs for enhancing climate resilience and implementing flood prediction and early warning systems.

Figure 2: Various community consultations with the municipality for CWA and CRVA in Lamkichuha Municipality

The study by GHRC concluded with the publication of final reports in January 2025. The reports will serve as essential reference materials for future policy decisions and project planning for the municipality. Based on the investigations and recommendations, Lamkichuha Municipality is expected to advance as a more inclusive, climate-resilient, and sustainable city.