KATHMANDU: The United Nations Development Programme and the Government of Japan have launched a USD 1.296 million project to strengthen urban climate resilience in Dhangadhi Sub Metropolitan City, one of Nepal’s most heat-vulnerable areas.

The initiative, part of UNDP’s Climate Promise program, was launched by Toru Maeda and Kyoko Yokosuka. It aims to address rising urban temperatures through energy-efficient infrastructure, nature-based cooling solutions, and improved urban planning.

Dhangadhi faces extreme heat, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C during recurring heatwaves, compounded by rapid urbanization and shrinking green spaces.

“Through this partnership, we aim to strengthen resilience to extreme heat and support vulnerable communities,” Maeda said, noting the project also marks the 70th anniversary of Japan-Nepal relations.

The project is expected to directly benefit around 4,000 people, focusing on sustainable and scalable solutions for climate resilient urban development.