Kathmandu, June 9
Ride-sharing services have rapidly transformed urban mobility in Nepal, with over 125,000 riders and an estimated one million users across major cities. Yet, despite their popularity, these services remain caught in a prolonged legal limbo.
Apps like Pathao, InDrive, Tootle, and others now dominate the market, particularly in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and Butwal. Two-wheelers are especially popular for their lower fares, with base rates starting at Rs 30 and per-kilometer charges ranging from Rs 15 to Rs 25. The convenience of door-to-door service has reshaped travel habits, offering a time-saving alternative to unreliable public transport.
However, tensions are mounting between traditional taxi operators and ride-share companies. Taxi drivers, while acknowledging the benefits of ride-sharing apps, oppose private vehicles transporting passengers for a fee. They argue that only licensed taxis with black number plates should be allowed to operate commercially.
Legal efforts to ban or regulate ride-sharing have repeatedly stalled. Although the Supreme Court in 2024 ordered the government to create legal frameworks supporting the sector, no such law has been enacted. Meanwhile, provincial attempts at regulation, like in Gandaki Province, were suspended following protests by transport unions.
As legal uncertainty lingers, ride-sharing continues to grow, fueled by demand and digital innovation.
