Last Updated on September 29, 2026 by alizni
As the festive season approaches in Nepal, the Parliamentary Committee on Infrastructure Development has stepped in to address the perennial challenges faced by millions of travelers. With major festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath on the horizon, the committee has issued formal directives to relevant government bodies and transport stakeholders. The primary objective is to ensure that the massive influx of passengers moving in and out of the Kathmandu Valley is handled with greater efficiency, safety, and dignity.
Prioritizing Passenger Safety During Peak Seasons
The festive season in Nepal is synonymous with a massive migration of people returning to their ancestral homes to celebrate with family. This surge in travel often puts immense pressure on the country’s transport infrastructure, leading to overcrowded buses, long delays, and, unfortunately, an increase in road safety risks. The Parliamentary Committee, led by Chairperson Ashish Gajurel, emphasized that the current state of passenger movement requires immediate intervention. By focusing on safety, the committee aims to minimize the risk of accidents that often spike due to rushed schedules and overloaded vehicles during the holiday rush.
Streamlining Transport Management and Infrastructure
Beyond safety, the directive highlights the need for a more structured and organized approach to transport management. The committee has urged authorities to conduct thorough inspections of public vehicles to ensure they are roadworthy before the festive peak begins. Furthermore, there is a strong push to regulate ticket booking systems to prevent black marketing, which has historically been a significant pain point for commuters. By implementing a more transparent and digital-friendly booking process, the government hopes to eliminate the chaos typically seen at bus parks during the days leading up to Dashain.
Addressing Road Conditions and Traffic Coordination
A critical component of the committee’s instruction involves the physical state of the country’s road networks. Many of Nepal’s highways are prone to landslides and damage during the monsoon season, which often persists into the early festive period. The committee has directed the Department of Roads and other local bodies to prioritize the immediate repair of critical road sections. Additionally, the directive calls for better coordination between the traffic police and transport entrepreneurs to manage the flow of vehicles effectively, ensuring that essential supplies and passenger transport are not hindered by gridlock or poorly managed traffic routes.
A Call for Collective Responsibility
While government directives provide the framework, the committee stressed that the success of these measures relies on the collective responsibility of all stakeholders. Transport operators are expected to adhere strictly to safety protocols and passenger capacity limits, while passengers are encouraged to plan their journeys well in advance to avoid last-minute complications. The committee’s intervention serves as a proactive measure to transform the holiday travel experience from a stressful ordeal into a safer, more predictable journey. Through consistent monitoring and strict adherence to these new guidelines, the government aims to uphold the dignity of every traveler during Nepal’s most cherished celebrations.
In conclusion, the directives issued by the Infrastructure Development Committee represent a significant step toward improving the reliability of Nepal’s transport sector. By emphasizing safety, organization, and accountability, the authorities are laying the groundwork for a more seamless festive travel experience. As the nation prepares for the upcoming celebrations, the focus remains on ensuring that every citizen reaches their destination safely and without unnecessary hardship.
