Aug 30, Kathmandu - The surge in private drone activities near Nepali territory close to the Nepal-China border has hampered rescue operations in the region.

The Nepal Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the regulatory body overseeing the country's aviation sector, has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) citing risks posed by drone activities to flight safety.

Previously, unauthorized drone flights had impacted helicopter operations involved in rescue and relief efforts. Following a similar incident today, flight operations in the affected area have been suspended.

The authority has advised helicopter pilots to exercise extra caution during rescue flights and has issued a NOTAM restricting drone activities.

The NCAA has specifically warned against flying within 10 kilometers south of the Kerung border area.