Photo: Habitat for Humanity International
Kathmandu, October 7
Seven in 10 people in Nepal frequently struggle to pay housing-related costs, while an equal proportion fear an unexpected setback could threaten their housing security, according to a new global study by Habitat for Humanity International.
The “Home at What Cost?” research, based on nationally representative surveys in 22 countries and responses from more than 30,000 people, found that 70 per cent of respondents in Nepal have difficulty meeting housing-related expenses, compared with 34 per cent globally.
The study also found that 28 per cent of respondents in Nepal had delayed or avoided medical care because of housing-related financial pressures, while 36 per cent had postponed necessary home repairs and 21 per cent had relied on food assistance.
Extreme weather is another major concern. Seventy-two per cent said extreme weather makes it difficult to feel safe where they live, while 70 per cent expect such conditions to make living where they currently reside more difficult within the next three years.
The report said 68 per cent of respondents considered their housing situation one of the biggest sources of stress in their lives, compared with 35 per cent globally.
Eliza Sthapit, national director of Habitat for Humanity Nepal, said the findings highlighted the need for safer, more affordable and resilient housing.
According to the organisation, Nepal needs an estimated 136,000 housing units, with an annual gap of around 34,000 units between homes built and those required.
