Kathmandu, July 12
Ministry of Home Affairs has proposed a ban on the operation of night buses across the country. This move comes in response to a tragic incident early this morning where a landslide on the Narayangadh-Mugling road caused two buses to fall into the Trishuli River, resulting in several passengers going missing.
The Ministry is currently in discussions with representatives of transportation businesses regarding this proposal. Dr Bhisma Kumar Bhusal, Joint Secretary and head of the Disaster and Conflict Management Division at the Ministry, stated that this measure is being considered due to the increased risks associated with night-time travel during the monsoon season.
“Operating vehicles at night during the monsoon period poses additional hazards,” said Dr Bhusal. “We are planning to engage with transportation entrepreneurs to deliberate on this matter.”
This proposal is not unprecedented. In August 2022, the Makwanpur police administration also halted buses travelling to Kathmandu via the Tribhuvan Highway, citing the dangers of night travel.
Despite these concerns, transportation entrepreneurs argue that halting night services is not a viable solution for mitigating risks. Saroj Sitoula, Senior Vice President of the Nepal Transport Entrepreneurs National Federation, emphasised the need for improved road safety measures instead.
“Who will compensate for the losses incurred by stopping the service?” Sitoula questioned. “There may be situations where stopping services is necessary, but a complete halt is not the answer.”
Following the incident in Chitwan, an emergency meeting was held at the Ministry of Home Affairs’ command post. Participants, while reviewing the incident, suggested that night bus operations should be suspended during the monsoon season. Consequently, transportation entrepreneurs have been invited to discuss this proposal further.
