Revamping Public Transportation: New Rules and Preparations in Nepal

The Government of Nepal is initiating a sweeping transformation in its public transport system, rolling out a series of new regulations aimed at improving service quality. Transport operators are gearing up to adhere to these innovative guidelines, set to be effective from June 16, 2023.

Key Changes in the New Regulations

• Audio Messaging: All medium and long-distance vehicles must now play audio messages to inform passengers about their journey.
• Loud Music Prohibition: The playing of loud music, which may cause disturbances to passengers, has been prohibited.
• Regular Health Check-ups: Drivers and co-drivers are mandated to undergo a health check-up at least once every three months.
• Customer-Centric Attitude: A strict guideline has been set for the staff, including the employees at ticket counters, to maintain polite and respectful behavior with passengers. Unnecessary conversations at ticket booths and inside the vehicles are discouraged.

Efforts to Implement the New Guidelines

Business owners in the transport sector are heavily invested in training their drivers and co-drivers to comply with the new regulations. Additionally, they are striving to improve the overall conduct and demeanor of all staff, aiming for a customer-friendly transport environment.

To ensure proper adherence, the Transport Management Procedures Guide, 2060 has been revised. The new rules emphasize courtesy and politeness towards passengers.

The National Association of Nepal Transport Professionals has shown support for the implementation of these new rules, encouraging practices like maintaining cleanliness in vehicles, prioritizing passenger health, avoiding noise pollution, and schedule stops for healthy food and restroom breaks on long and medium-distance routes.

Identity Verification and Uniform Regulations

The government has directed transport operators to ensure drivers and co-drivers wear uniforms and identification cards issued by the company. This measure intends to improve accountability and ensure passenger safety.

The common public has often voiced their concerns regarding the disorderly conduct of drivers and co-drivers in long-distance public vehicles. The new rules address these issues and strive to bring a more ordered and respectful environment on public transports.

Future Monitoring and Compliance

The association has ensured continuous monitoring and enforcement of these rules post their implementation from June 16, 2023. These measures should hopefully lead to a significant improvement in the state of public transportation in Nepal.