Kathmandu, September 23
Transport entrepreneurs have urged the public to avoid long-distance and night travel from Thursday as the country faces the possibility of heavy rainfall and increased risks of floods and landslides.
The Federation of Nepal National Transport Entrepreneurs issued a statement urging transport operators to obtain updated information about road conditions and weather before operating services from Thursday through September 28.
The federation has also asked the public to avoid long-distance travel unless it is necessary.
It has specifically urged people not to travel at night from Thursday, citing the increased risks posed by adverse weather and road conditions.
The federation said it was issuing the appeal in line with an earlier request from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, which had urged stakeholders to take precautions amid the forecast of continuous rainfall this week.
The government has warned that prolonged rainfall could increase the risk of floods and landslides in several parts of the country.
The transport federation has accordingly instructed its members to assess weather and road conditions before operating vehicles and to take necessary precautions.
Authorities have also urged the public to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel in areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides.
