KATHMANDU: Nepal’s aviation regulator, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), has undergone a leadership shift after Director General Pradeep Adhikari was suspended in connection with an ongoing corruption investigation.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation on Friday confirmed that Joint Secretary Mukesh Dangol has been appointed to oversee CAAN’s operations as acting Director General. The temporary appointment has been made under Section 19 of the CAAN Act, 2053, ensuring that regulatory oversight, safety monitoring and infrastructure development continue without disruption.

The change follows the arrest of suspended DG Adhikari and former CAAN Director Murari Bhandari by the CIAA on December 3. The two were taken into custody over alleged irregularities in the construction of the Nalinchok helipad in Bhaktapur. A charge sheet filed at the Special Court names six individuals, each facing corruption claims of NPR 135.7 million.

Both Adhikari and Bhandari remain in judicial custody.

The aviation regulator plays a crucial role in Nepal’s tourism and air connectivity landscape, overseeing airport operations, aerodrome development and aviation safety standards. The ministry said it remains committed to maintaining stability in the sector while the investigation proceeds.