In the aftermath of the recent devastating floods in Nepal that left roads and bridges destroyed and helicopters engaged in search and rescue efforts, the country’s army has turned to drones for delivering essential aid to the displaced population.
Following a Himalayan glacier break near the Nepal-China border in late August, the disaster has resulted in at least 1,367 confirmed deaths and over 5,000 individuals reported missing in Nepal. The ensuing devastation along downstream rivers prompted the urgent need for relief operations.
“With most helicopters focused on rescue missions, drones have emerged as the most efficient means to transport food, medicine, and fuel to those in need. We must prioritize their use,” emphasized Santosh Budhathoki, a contracted drone pilot for the Nepal army.
Capable of covering distances of three to four kilometers and carrying loads of up to 60 kilograms, drones have proven instrumental in aiding affected communities grappling with dire circumstances.
The army is currently conducting approximately 10 to 16 aid deliveries daily using a fleet of four DJI FlyCart 100 drones, generously donated by China as part of recent aid efforts.
In addition to delivering aid, drones have been utilized for transporting flood victims’ bodies in affected regions, while reconnaissance drones have played a crucial role in search and rescue operations.
Milan Pandey from Airlift Technology, a drone-operating company, described the demanding nature of their operations, highlighting the necessity for immediate and efficient assistance in Nepal’s challenging terrain.
Given the country’s unique geography, drones offer a faster, more expedient, and cost-effective solution for addressing the pressing needs arising from the disaster, Pandey emphasized.
