Kathmandu | 13 October 2026

Urban Solutions to Crisis: Strengthening Resilient, Inclusive and Safe Cities in Nepal

The Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD)/Department of Urban Development and Building Construction (DUDBC), in collaboration with UN-Habitat Nepal and partners, observed World Habitat Day and International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction on 13 October 2025 at the DUDBC Hall, Babarmahal, Kathmandu, under the global theme of World Habitat Day - “Urban Solutions to Crisis”. Strongly guided by the theme and capturing events following the Gen-Z movement in September 2025, various stakeholders reflected on the complex crisis that Nepal faced in the previous month (including floodings and landslides), and the role of cities to rise back as a symbol of hope and resilience.

Kulman Ghising, Former Minister MoUD delivers remarks during World Habitat Day 2025

Former Minister of MoUD, Kulman Ghising, highlighted the necessity for crisis management in both rural and urban contexts and the need of an integrated approach for settlement development considering not only physical infrastructure but also social and economic resilience. He emphasized on integrating fire safety assessments into the building permit system and also launched the Sahari Bikas Bulletin, a compendium of urban development and housing initiatives.

In a video message, Executive Director of UN-Habitat, Anacláudia Rossbach, emphasized that every crisis has a human face and that we need to address it with compassion and inclusivity. She highlighted the urgency to prioritize housing, land, and basic services for all, as buildings represent far more than mortar and brick — they stand as symbols of dignity and hope for communities.

Pragya Pradhan, Habitat Programme Manager at UN-Habitat Nepal, further emphasized that ensuring land rights and adequate housing for all, is non negotiatiable as it is fundamental to achieving inclusive and resilient urban development. She advocated for the need to build back better and restore hope in humanity, especially in the face of recent crises.