Mandi: The Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA), in collaboration with the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and Caritas India, has launched a pilot project to strengthen flood resilience in the flood-prone district of Mandi. Supported by the United Kingdom’s International Development, the initiative focuses on applying Nature-based Solutions to reduce disaster risks and protect local infrastructure.
Dharampur, located along the Son Khadd river, has been selected as the pilot site due to its recurrent flash floods and increasing vulnerability during intense monsoon seasons. A major flood event in September 2025 caused severe damage to public infrastructure, prompting the need for long-term mitigation measures.
The project integrates ecological engineering methods, including the use of native vegetation and bioengineered slopes, to stabilise riverbanks and reduce erosion. A community-based flood early warning system is also being developed to enhance preparedness and response.
“The conditions in Dharampur and Mandi reflect a worrying escalation of monsoon-driven hazards. Scaling Nature-based Solutions with a community-first approach is essential,” said Duni Chand Rana, Director and Ex-Officio Special Secretary for Revenue and Disaster Management.
Since August, joint teams from HPSDMA, ICIMOD and Caritas India have been assessing vulnerable watersheds in Mandi and Shimla to identify priority intervention zones. ICIMOD’s Disaster Risk Reduction Lead, Saswata Sanyal, highlighted that the project aims to demonstrate a replicable model for Himalayan regions facing similar climate stress.
Experts involved in the initiative emphasise the strength and sustainability of vegetative slope reinforcements and restoring local biodiversity. Botany specialist Vaneet Jishtu noted that long-term restoration requires using native plant species and local knowledge systems to ensure ecological balance and community acceptance.
Caritas India’s Executive Director Fr. Jesudass R. welcomed the approach of blending science with traditional practices to address local needs. Meanwhile, grassroots organisations such as Doers will work with residents to mobilise community participation, maintenance and monitoring of interventions.
The project is now advancing toward implementation, aiming to create a scalable resilience model for high-risk mountain regions across the Hindu Kush Himalaya.