A severe flood and landslide in central Nepal last week caused widespread destruction, cutting off transportation and communication for thousands of residents. The disaster has affected approximately 10,000 households, according to United Nations estimates, and has left more than 2,500 people unaccounted for as rescue operations continue.

In response to the challenges posed by the loss of infrastructure, including the destruction of over 35 bridges and damage to nearly 25 miles of roads, aid groups and authorities are exploring alternative methods for delivering essential supplies. On Saturday in Devighat, near the central town of Bidur, a team of private drone operators, army volunteers, and police officers conducted tests to assess the viability of using drones to transport relief materials across the Trishuli River, a major barrier caused by the disaster.

The drone tested was notably large, with the size of a large dining table when its propellers were extended, capable of carrying payloads up to 220 pounds. For the initial flight, the team loaded the drone with approximately 130 pounds of supplies including rice, instant noodles, clothing, and sanitary pads. Despite light rain, the team successfully attached the goods using ropes and carabiners.

Though designed to reach thousands of feet in altitude, this drone flew at a lower elevation to carry the aid across the river. It did not land on the far side but hovered while personnel unloaded the cargo. Each round trip took roughly three minutes. Following its first successful flight, the team conducted several more trials, with consistent results demonstrating the potential of drone delivery in the current crisis.

Officials plan to present these findings to government authorities to consider integrating drone deliveries into broader humanitarian relief efforts. This initiative complements existing efforts where various drone sizes have already been used to deliver emergency provisions to hard-to-reach remote areas.

Infrastructure damage from the flood has raised urgent challenges for Nepal’s recovery. Finance Minister Swarnim Waglé estimated that rebuilding efforts could require more than $4 billion. Nepal has also appealed to international partners for portable bridges to restore critical connectivity and support ongoing rescue and relief operations.

The use of drones in Nepal’s flood response represents a growing trend in leveraging technology to overcome physical obstacles during natural disasters, offering a possible lifeline to isolated communities while traditional routes remain inaccessible.