Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Discusses Aviation Safety with Defense Minister and Acting Chief of Nepali Army

The Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pande, held a critical meeting with Defense Minister Manbir Rai and the Acting Chief of the Nepali Army, Ashokraj Sigdel, on Sunday to address pressing issues related to aviation safety in Nepal.

The discussions, which took place at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, focused on the training and management of aviation safety within the Nepali Army, with an emphasis on how best practices could be replicated across the board. During the meeting, the Nepali Army recommended that ultramodern technology be installed to provide early weather warnings, a measure aimed at reducing the frequency of air accidents in the country. The Army officials highlighted the challenges posed by Nepal’s geographical diversity and erratic weather patterns, which have been significant contributors to air safety concerns.

Minister Pande initiated the discussion in response to two air accidents that occurred within the span of a month, raising alarm about the current state of aviation safety. In the meeting, the minister’s secretariat revealed that there were suggestions to establish a joint committee comprising representatives from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, the International Civil Aviation Organization, and the Nepali Army. This committee would be tasked with regular discussions, studies, research, and monitoring of aviation safety practices.

Despite the challenges, Minister Pande commended the Nepali Army’s air service, noting its excellence. However, he stressed the importance of ensuring that similar safety standards are maintained in civil aviation as well.

Nepali Army officials also pointed out that while laws and systems regarding flight security are in place, their effective implementation requires more attention. Additionally, they informed the minister that the Nepali Army has its own air safety guidelines, which could serve as a model for broader aviation safety initiatives in the country.

This meeting marks a significant step towards improving aviation safety in Nepal, especially in light of recent incidents that have underscored the need for enhanced measures.