Kathmandu. Kathmandu: The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has made preparation to request the private sector to provide helicopter, drone and rafting as part of the preparedness for monsoon-induced disasters.

The Authority of Nepal (NRA) is requesting for the availability of heli, drone and rafting as per the previous agreement with the private sector to be used for the search and rescue of people in distress. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, in coordination with the security agencies, has strengthened preparedness in view of the risk of flood, landslide and inundation in 21 districts with the forecast of heavy to very heavy rainfall in different parts of the country.

Chief Executive Officer of CAAN, Pradeep Kumar Koirala, shared that NA helicopters have been kept on standby in Kathmandu, Itahari, Bhairahawa and Surkhet for rescue and rescue in case of any disaster.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), Nepal Drone Association and Nepal Association of Rafting Agencies (NARA) signed a memorandum of understanding to this effect last week. As per the MoU signed with the Airlines Operators Association of Nepal, the government has agreed to provide flights within the Kathmandu Valley free of cost and at minimum operating cost if they have to fly outside the Valley.

As per the agreement, the Authority should provide drone and related equipment (including pilots) free of cost to the Authority if the use of drones is required during the time of disaster. However, the NRA will make arrangements for the travel and accommodation of the members deputed in this work. Similarly, as per the MoU with Nepal Association of Rafting Agencies (NARA), NARA should provide the raft and related equipment (including manpower) free of cost if the Authority demands for the use of rafts during the time of disaster.

As per the agreement, the raft and human resources would be used for immediate search and rescue of people affected by flood, inundation and river-induced disasters, and for the transportation of relief materials, medicines and rescue teams. The MoU will remain in place for one year and can be renewed on mutual understanding.