Mountain Hazards Mapping in Nepal Introduction to an Applied Mountain Research Project

Abstract

This paper explains the background of a project on mountain hazards mapping in Nepal which is supported by the United Nations University, Unesco, and His Majesty's Government of Nepal. Three areas, representative of the three main altitudinal belts experiencing major human impacts, were selected for production of prototype hazard maps. They are: 1) High- Altitude belt above and below upper timberline (Khumbu Himal); 2) Middle Mountain belt (vicinity of Kathmandu); and 3) Low- Altitude belt (transection of the Siwalik Hills and Gangetic Plain). The research design is presented and some early results from completed work in the Kathmandu area are discussed. The paper is intended to provide a framework for a series of subsequent reports on more detailed aspects of the study, including geomorphology, ethnography, biogeography, land use, and the hazard maps themselves.