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Fast Action for Floods : RCT Evidence on Forecast-based Cash Transfers from Bangladesh and Nepal

Author

Listed:
  • Adusumalli, Nidhila
  • Batmunkh, Odbayar
  • Christian, Paul J.
  • Dunsch, Felipe
  • Heirman, Jonas
  • Kelley, Erin
  • Kondylis, Florence
  • Lane, Gregory
  • Malhotra, Kriti
  • Waidler, Jennifer

Abstract

As increasingly frequent extreme weather events disrupt lives, institutions are turning to early-warning systems and advance preparation to accelerate aid delivery. A randomized controlled trial in Bangladesh and Nepal tested whether providing cash within days of a flood leads to greater benefits than delivering the same assistance months later—or if it simply shifts the timing of benefits without improving overall welfare. The results suggest that timely cash assistance leads to overall gains in food security and psychosocial well-being. This evidence supports efforts to forecast crises and release disaster relief quickly.

Suggested Citation

  • Adusumalli, Nidhila & Batmunkh, Odbayar & Christian, Paul J. & Dunsch, Felipe & Heirman, Jonas & Kelley, Erin & Kondylis, Florence & Lane, Gregory & Malhotra, Kriti & Waidler, Jennifer, 2025. "Fast Action for Floods : RCT Evidence on Forecast-based Cash Transfers from Bangladesh and Nepal," Policy Research Working Paper Series 11244, The World Bank.
    • Handle: RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:11244
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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