Ministry of Tourism Issues Strict Directive to Improve Airport Services Nationwide

Kathmandu. The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation has issued a strict directive to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal to bring about comprehensive improvements in the service quality of all airports across the country, including Tribhuvan International Airport.

Citing the need for immediate improvements in airport services, cleanliness, and passenger-friendly infrastructure based on complaints and suggestions received from the public and passengers, the Ministry has ordered implementation and submission of a report within 24 hours.

In a letter issued on Friday, Ministry Secretary Mukunda Prasad Niraula specifically instructed the provision of free sanitary pads in major airport restrooms, keeping in mind the sensitivities of female passengers.

Similarly, the Ministry has urged the operation of clean, safe, and private breastfeeding and 'baby changing' rooms for mothers with young children, or the upgrading of existing facilities. The directive also mentions the arrangement of primary care rooms for sick, elderly, and disabled passengers.

To bring airport cleanliness in line with international standards, the Ministry has directed the implementation of a daily cleaning logbook system. It has been instructed to strictly adhere to health standards set by the World Health Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization, as well as national public health standards.

The Ministry has also alerted the Authority to ensure regular inspection and mandatory documentation of airport premises. Photographic evidence of the implementation of these directives and logbook details must be submitted to the Ministry's email within 24 hours. The Ministry has also warned that failure to comply with the instructions will result in action as per prevailing laws.