Drones Deliver Food and Essentials to Flood-Hit Village in Kavre

In a remarkable response to road blockages caused by incessant rain, drones are being used to deliver food and essential supplies to a remote village in Panauti municipality-12, Kavre. The village, Magargaun, was left isolated after rural roads were damaged by flooding and landslides last week.

The relief effort is being coordinated by Hami Team Nepal, in collaboration with Airlift Technology. Parikshyan Humagain, a volunteer from the organization, confirmed that a shipment of rice and other necessities was successfully sent to the village on Sunday. “Given the geographical remoteness and road blockages, we provided relief materials to 85 families using drones,” said Humagain.

Among the supplies delivered are rice, solar lights, salt, cooking oil, spices, sanitary pads, and lactogen for children. The drones, which are launched from Bhumidanda in ward 12, have become the only viable means of transporting aid, as the road leading to the village from Panauti Bazaar has been rendered impassable.

Humagain explained that drones can transport up to 65 kilograms of goods at a time, though in unfavorable weather conditions, smaller loads of 20 kilograms may be sent. The organization is also working to map out other isolated settlements to prioritize drone deliveries to areas facing similar difficulties.

Kavre has been hit particularly hard by recent floods and landslides, with a death toll of 77, accounting for over 31% of flood-related fatalities across the country last week. In total, 244 people have died nationwide due to the disaster, while Kavre alone has recorded 33 women, 28 men, nine boys, and seven girls among the victims.

The innovative use of drones offers a lifeline to Magargaun’s residents, many of whom remain cut off from traditional supply routes. Hami Team Nepal’s efforts represent a crucial step in providing emergency relief in these challenging conditions, and the organization plans to expand the use of drones to other similarly affected areas.