Department of Transport Management (DoTM) announced that advance ticket buying for public transportation will begin on Saturday, Sept 28. It is ahead of the Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath festivals. With many likely to leave the Kathmandu Valley, the agency hopes to manage the increase of travelers properly. The decision was reached during a meeting with officials from the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Nepal Police, Traffic Police, and transportation businesses.
This year, transportation companies were advised to allow online booking, making it easier for passengers to get tickets. Ishwori Dutta Paneru, a DoTM representative, emphasized the necessity of online platforms for medium and long-distance routes, which provide easier travel experiences. In addition to online services, tickets will be available at physical counters, and customers will be reminded to only buy from authorized people.
To help control traffic during the festival season, the DoTM has imposed limitations on heavy-duty vehicles on the Narayanghat-Kathmandu highway from October 3 to 17. Only necessary goods trucks will be excluded from this regulation. The agency has highlighted that public buses would only allow people with valid tickets to board, making the procedure more efficient for both passengers and operators.
This year, safety measures have been focused on avoiding accidents and ensuring passenger safety. All drivers will be required to undergo mandatory health tests. Tough laws will be implemented against driving while drunk. Long-distance buses must have two drivers and minor assistance drivers. Those under the age of 18, are not permitted to work during the event.
To help tourists, the DoTM will establish Citizen Help Desks at key sites around the Valley. These include popular transport stops such as Nagdhunga, Kalanki, Gongabu Bus Park, Koteshwar, and more. These help desks will provide travelers with support and information. They have collaborated with local traffic and transportation authorities to guarantee smooth operations throughout the peak travel time.
While the DoTM has made attempts to improve ticketing and transportation systems, road conditions are still a major problem. Critical routes such as the Narayanghat-Butwal part of the East-West Highway and the Nagdhunga-Mugling link are still being built. The development was delayed by the continuing monsoon. Despite the Ministry’s instructions to repair roads before Dashain, construction delays and heavy rains increase transport difficulties during the celebrations.
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Image source: https://english.makalukhabar.com/2022/09/75450/
