Private Sector and Authority Sign Agreement to Provide Helipad, Drone, and Rafting Services During Disasters
Summary
Reviewed and Prepared.
- The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has signed agreements with three organizations to provide helicopters, drones, and rafts for search and rescue efforts.
- According to the agreement, the Air Service Operators Association will offer free helicopter services within the Kathmandu Valley and minimal cost services outside, while drone and rafting services will be provided completely free of charge.
- Pradeep Kumar Koirala, the Authority’s Executive Chief, emphasized the need for cooperation between the government and private sector in disaster management and expressed gratitude for the private sector’s proactive support.
June 14, Kathmandu – An agreement has been reached between the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority and three organizations—the Air Service Operators Association, Nepal Drone Association, and Nepal Association of Rafting Agencies (NARA)—to provide helipad, drone, and rafting services for individuals affected by disasters during search and rescue operations.
The agreement was formalized during a ceremony held by the Authority, in which the three organizations signed a memorandum of understanding with the Authority. Per the agreement with the Air Service Operators Association, helicopter services will be provided free of charge for flights within the Kathmandu Valley, while services outside the valley will be offered at minimal operational costs.
Similarly, under the agreement with the Nepal Drone Association, necessary drones and related equipment (including pilots) will be made available to the Authority free of charge during disaster situations. The Authority will arrange travel and accommodations for the members involved in these operations.
As for the Nepal Association of Rafting Agencies (NARA), the organization has agreed to provide rafts and related equipment (with manpower) free of charge upon the Authority’s request during disasters. These rafts and personnel will be utilized for the immediate search and rescue of people affected by floods, submersion, and river-related disasters, as well as transportation of relief materials, medicines, and rescue teams. This agreement will remain in effect for one year and may be renewed through mutual consent.
At the event, Pradeep Kumar Koirala, Executive Chief of the Authority, highlighted the importance of collaboration and coordination between the government, private sector, and communities during disasters. He stressed that cooperation from all parties is vital for disaster success and expressed appreciation for the private sector’s willingness to serve. Additionally, Murali Dhar Joshi, General Secretary of the Air Service Operators Association Nepal; Raj Bikram Maharjan, President of Nepal Drone Association; and Shiv Adhikari, Acting Chairperson of NARA, committed to supporting the protection of lives and property of citizens affected by disasters.
Representatives from the National Emergency Operations Center, Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, Department of Roads, Nepal Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force Nepal were also present on the occasion.