Transdisciplinary Approach to Post Disaster-Recovery: A Case Study of the 2015 Gorkha Earthquake, Nepal

The April 2015 Gorkha earthquake caused widespread devastation in Nepal, necessitating disaster-resilient reconstruction. The Government of Nepal, alongside its development partners, established comprehensive strategies for recovery and rebuilding. A transdisciplinary approach (TDA) at the community level was used to reconstruct resilient infrastructure, enhance human resources, and establish information databases. Recognizing the disaster’s cross-sectoral impact, a dedicated institution, the National Reconstruction Authority (NRA), was formed to manage reconstruction holistically via a “single door policy.” Initial efforts focused on formulating legal policies and technical guidelines and assessing damaged infrastructure. The NRA aimed to mobilize technical experts and communities, and develop human resources through awareness programs, with the ultimate goal of making building safety a universal priority. Key TDA interventions involved mandatory implementation of the Nepal National Building Code, developing modular building designs, preparing technical manuals, and enabling a community mobilization program. A management information system database was created for information sharing and monitoring, while the “Owner-Driven Reconstruction Approach” and “Build Back Better” principles guided efforts. Socially, community mobilization was crucial, facilitated by mobile masons and collaboration with stakeholders. Despite the significant losses, Nepal gained valuable insights from its TDA recovery process. The nation’s post-earthquake rebuilding experience is now considered an exemplary model for the region and the wider world.