Mustang AI Drone Technology Deployed to Monitor High-Altitude Yarsagumba Regions

20th May 2026, Kathmandu

In a landmark move toward integrating modern technology with environmental conservation, artificial intelligence (AI)-powered drones have been deployed for forest patrolling in Mustang for the very first time.

Mustang AI Drone Technology Deployed

The Area Conservation Office in Jomsom, operating under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), announced the launch of this high-tech monitoring initiative across Mustang’s high-altitude highlands, pastures, and alpine meadows (kharks and patans). While drones have previously been used in the region exclusively for filmmaking, documentaries, and cultural event videography, this marks the debut of AI drone technology for wildlife and forest surveillance.

According to Sanjoge Thakali, Senior Natural Resources Conservation Assistant at ACAP Jomsom, the technology was introduced to tackle the challenges of monitoring Mustang’s difficult geography, remote terrains, and sparsely populated zones.

“We have initiated AI drone patrolling to ensure the preservation of protected forests, forest products, and wildlife, while actively curbing poaching and tracking unauthorized activities in the region,” Thakali stated.

Key Technical Specifications of the Deployed AI Drone

The lightweight yet powerful drone chosen for this rugged high-altitude terrain boasts impressive technical specs capable of handling Mustang’s extreme weather and thin air:

Weight: 1,063 grams

Flight Range: 15 to 20 kilometers

Maximum Altitude Capability: Up to 6 kilometers (6,000 meters) above sea level

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Top Speed: 90 to 97 kilometers per hour

Curbing Risks During the Yarsagumba Harvesting Season

The deployment comes at a crucial time as the Yarsagumba (Caterpillar Fungus) harvesting season is currently underway. ACAP has intensified its surprise inspections using the AI drones to keep a strict vigil on the alpine regions.

The automated aerial surveillance is aimed at minimizing risks associated with high-altitude harvesting, such as:

• Preventing illegal wildlife poaching, setting traps, or carrying firearms in protected zones.

• Monitoring and checking unauthorized or suspicious movements by harvesters.

• Mitigating forest fire risks by detecting early smoke signs in remote areas.

So far, successful drone patrolling missions have been completed in the Lupra Lake area under Baragung Muktikshetra Rural Municipality-1, as well as the Bhraksa and Namkhu regions of Gharpajhong Rural Municipality.

This technological milestone represents a massive leap forward for Nepal’s conservation efforts, proving that local authorities are ready to embrace fourth industrial revolution (4IR) tools to safeguard the country’s unique ecological heritage.

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