Kathmandu, October 8
The Federation of Nepalese National Transport Entrepreneurs has urged transport operators not to charge passengers more than the government-approved fare during the upcoming festive season.
Federation General Secretary Deknath Gautam said vehicles found charging fares above the prescribed rates would face action.
The government has decided to open advance ticket bookings for passenger vehicles across the country from October 9 ahead of Dashain.
The decision was taken following discussions among the Department of Transport Management, the federation, transport workers’ unions, Nepal Police and the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office to ensure smooth, organised and safe transportation of passengers and goods during the festive period.
The federation said it has issued necessary instructions to its seven provincial committees, district committees, member organisations and branch chiefs and staff working at Gongabu Bus Park in Kathmandu.
Staff working at advance ticket booking counters will be required to wear designated uniforms and identity cards. They have also been instructed to treat passengers politely, make ticketing convenient and help ensure safe travel.
To manage the increased traffic during Dashain, trailers and other heavy vehicles will be barred from operating on the Narayangadh-Kathmandu road section from Ghatasthapana on October 11 until October 25.
The restriction will not apply to vehicles carrying food, medicines, fruits and other essential goods, in accordance with existing laws.
The federation said long- and medium-route permits for passenger vehicles across the country will remain open from Ghatasthapana until November 6. However, restrictions on certain types and sizes of public vehicles imposed because of the nature of specific roads will remain in place.
The Department of Transport Management will deploy teams, including designated focal persons, to monitor and facilitate passenger assistance desks set up at major entry and exit points of Kathmandu Valley.
The federation has assigned representatives to Gongabu Bus Park, Kalanki, Koteshwor, Gaushala and Chabahil for the same purpose.
Vehicle fitness testing has also been prioritised ahead of the festive rush. Technical staff from the department’s Vehicle Testing Office in Teku will be deployed to Gongabu Bus Park to provide free fitness tests for passenger vehicles.
