Terms of Reference (TOR) for Situation Analysis of Bhadalinala for Nature-Based Solutions (Nbs)

Terms of Reference (TOR)

Situation Analysis of Bhadalinala for Nature-Based Solutions (Nbs)

1. Background:

Sonaha Bikash Samaj Bardiya (SBS), with support from WWF Nepal and MetLife Foundation, is implementing the project “Joint Effort for Eco-system, Wellbeing and Alternative Livelihoods of Local Communities based on Nature (JEEWAN)” in Rajapur Municipality, Bardiya.

Bhadali Nala, located in Rajapur Municipality–1, Bardiya, is experiencing stream-bank cutting, erosion and inundation-related challenges that affect local communities, agricultural land and the surrounding ecosystem. There is a need for a practical situation analysis to understand the existing hydrological, environmental and socio-economic conditions and identify appropriate Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to reduce stream-bank erosion/cutting and inundation while improving ecosystem resilience and community wellbeing.

Therefore, SBS seeks an experienced individual consultant/consulting firm with demonstrated expertise in designing and planning Nature-based Solutions, river/stream-bank stabilization, watershed management, flood/inundation risk reduction and climate-resilient approaches to undertake the situation analysis of Bhadali Nala.

2. Objective of the Consultancy

The overall objective is to conduct a rapid but technically sound situation analysis of Bhadali Nala and recommend feasible, site-specific and community-friendly Nature-based Solutions for reducing stream-bank cutting, erosion and inundation.

Specific objectives are to:

• Assess the existing physical, hydrological, ecological and socio-economic condition of Bhadali Nala and its surrounding area.
• Identify major causes, hotspots and impacts of stream-bank cutting, erosion and inundation.
• Assess existing structural and/or natural measures and their effectiveness.
• Identify technically feasible and environmentally sustainable NbS options for stream-bank stabilization and inundation reduction.
• Consult local communities, municipality representatives and relevant stakeholders to incorporate local knowledge and priorities.
• Recommend appropriate NbS interventions, including indicative locations, implementation approaches and maintenance requirements.

3. Scope of work

The consultant/consulting firm will review relevant available secondary information, maps, reports, and local plans related to Bhadali Nala, flooding, erosion, and land use, followed by field visits and a rapid technical assessment of the nala, stream banks, drainage and inundation areas, and surrounding landscape. The assessment will identify erosion, stream-bank cutting, and inundation hotspots and their underlying causes, while examining hydrological, geomorphological, ecological, and land-use conditions relevant to Nature-based Solutions (NbS) planning. The consultant will conduct consultations, FGDs, and/or key informant discussions with affected communities, local government, and other relevant stakeholders, and assess existing community practices and infrastructure related to flood and erosion management. Based on the findings, the consultant will identify and compare suitable NbS options, including bioengineering, vegetative stabilization, riparian restoration, wetland and retention measures, natural drainage improvement, and other context-appropriate interventions. The consultant will recommend priority interventions based on technical feasibility, environmental benefits, social acceptance, cost-effectiveness, and long-term sustainability, and prepare indicative intervention recommendations covering priority sites, broad design concepts, required materials and vegetation, implementation considerations, and maintenance arrangements. The consultant will also provide recommendations for further detailed surveys, designs, and implementation.

4. Key Deliverables

The consultant/consulting firm shall submit:

• Draft Situation Analysis Report, including field findings, maps/site photographs, key issues, hotspot identification and proposed NbS options.
• Final Situation Analysis Report, incorporating feedback from SBS and relevant stakeholders.
• A concise NbS intervention recommendation matrix indicating priority site, problem, proposed solution, expected benefits and indicative implementation/maintenance requirements.
• Presentation of key findings and recommendations to SBS and relevant stakeholders.
• Financial report with supporting invoices.

5. Duration and Level of Effort

The consultancy shall be completed within 15 calendar days from the date of contract agreement. The assignment is expected to include desk review, field assessment, stakeholder consultation, analysis and preparation/presentation of the final report.

6. Required Qualification and Experience

The consultant/consulting firm should have:

• At least a Master’s degree in Civil/Water Resources Engineering, Environmental Science, Hydrology, Natural Resource Management, Forestry, Watershed Management, Disaster Risk Management or a related field.
• Demonstrated professional experience in Nature-based Solutions (NbS), river/stream-bank stabilization, bioengineering, watershed management, flood/inundation risk reduction or ecosystem-based approaches.
• Proven experience in assessment and design/recommendation of NbS interventions for erosion, bank cutting, flooding or climate-related risks.
• Strong experience in field-based technical assessments and preparation of practical reports/design recommendations.
• Experience working with local communities, local governments and development organizations in Nepal.
• Previous experience in similar assignments, particularly in the Terai/flood-prone areas of Nepal, will be an advantage.
• Good analytical, report-writing and communication skills.

7. Application / Proposal Requirement 

Interested and qualified consultant/consulting firms are invited to submit:

• Technical proposal including understanding of the assignment and proposed methodology.
• Detailed work plan and timeline.
• Financial proposal with a clear cost breakdown.
• Updated CV(s) of proposed expert(s).
• Evidence of relevant similar assignments/work experience.
• At least two references from recent relevant assignments.
• Company/firm registration and other applicable legal documents, where relevant.

8. Coordination and Reporting

The consultant/consulting firm will work closely with Sonaha Bikash Samaj Bardiya (SBS) and coordinate with Rajapur Municipality, relevant community groups and other stakeholders. The consultant will report to the designated focal person of SBS and ensure that all deliverables are submitted within the agreed timeframe.

9. Confidentiality and Ownership

All information, data, maps, photographs, reports and other materials collected or prepared under this consultancy shall remain the property of SBS and shall not be used or shared for other purposes without prior written approval.

10. Budget

Interested VAT registered individuals/organizations should submit a financial proposal that includes a detailed breakdown of total activities and budget: Expert fee, meeting cost, travel cost, communication costs and other costs, if any (including 13% VAT.).

11. Proposal Submission Details

Interested VAT registered individuals /organizations are requested to submit technical and financial proposals via email: sbsbardiya@gmail.com by 30 September 2026.