Impact of climate change in Nepal across sectors from water-centric perspective: A systematic review

This study assesses the impacts of climate change on water resources and water-related sectors in Nepal using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework. Analysis reveals the inescapable regional temperature increase in high altitude area while variable precipitation patterns is noticed throughout the country. Glacier retreat, reduced snowfall, and altered streamflow regimes are intensifying in Himalayas whereas floods and droughts are escalating, and groundwater levels are shrinking. As a consequence, agriculture, energy, and ecosystems are significantly affected with the critical challenges in water scarcity, conflict, human migration. To deal with this issue, robust adaptation strategies, including improved water management, infrastructure development, and community engagement along with the policy implications is necessary. This research highlights the urgency in enhancement of water security in the face of changing climate through comprehensive and integrated approaches.