The Regional Programme on river basins focuses on multidisciplinary resource management approaches that address climate change and variability; cryosphere dynamics; the hydrological regime and water availability; water-related risk management; mountain community water management; and vulnerability and adaptation. The programme emphasizes improved understanding of upstream-downstream linkages and the links between natural resources and livelihoods. The current focus is on developing programmes for the Koshi and Indus river basins, with more to be developed in the future. Key outcomes will include improved estimates of future water availability and its impact, and adaptive water management strategies at basin and community levels.
