Kathmandu, August 19
Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal has announced that public transport fares will not be increased during this year’s Dashain and Tihar festivals.
Speaking at a meeting of the Infrastructure Development Committee of the House of Representatives on Sunday, Minister Dahal said that although transport fares are usually adjusted in line with fuel prices, the government has decided not to raise fares during the festive season to avoid burdening passengers.
He urged transport operators not to hike fares during the period of heavy travel demand and assured that the government is engaged in dialogue with transport entrepreneurs to address the challenges they face.
Minister Dahal also said the government is preparing to hand over responsibility for road projects, including those employing daily wage workers, to the provincial governments.
“This year, there is no plan to increase fares during Dashain and Tihar. We have already urged transport operators not to take advantage of the festive rush. If transport entrepreneurs have any concerns, we are ready to discuss and address them together,” he said.
