KATHMANDU, July 19: The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has said it will seek support from the private sector to provide helicopters, drones and rafting equipment if required as part of its monsoon disaster preparedness plan.
The authority will mobilize these resources under pre-signed agreements with private sector organizations to support search and rescue operations during disasters. Following forecasts by the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in various parts of the country, the authority has strengthened its preparedness in coordination with security agencies as 21 districts face an increased risk of floods, landslides and inundation.
Acting Executive Chief Pradip Kumar Koirala said four Nepal Army helicopters have been stationed in Kathmandu, Itahari, Bhairahawa and Surkhet for immediate rescue operations in the event of a disaster. He added that private operators will be requested to provide helicopters, drones and rafting equipment if additional resources are needed.
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Last week, the NDRRMA signed separate memorandums of understanding with the Airline Operators Association of Nepal, the Drone Association of Nepal and the Nepal Association of Rafting Agencies (NARA).
Under the agreement with the Airline Operators Association of Nepal, helicopter services within the Kathmandu Valley will be provided free of charge, while flights outside the valley will be available at the minimum operational cost.
The agreement with the Drone Association of Nepal requires the association to provide drones, related equipment and trained pilots free of charge whenever requested by the authority during disaster response. The authority will cover travel and accommodation costs for the deployed personnel.
Similarly, under its agreement with NARA, the association will provide rafts, related equipment and trained personnel free of charge whenever requested by the authority during disasters.
The rafts and rescue teams will be used for the immediate search and rescue of people affected by floods, inundation and river-related disasters, as well as for transporting relief supplies, medicines and rescue personnel.
The agreements will remain valid for one year and may be renewed by mutual consent.
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