Bagmati Province Implements Hike in Public Transport Fares

Kathmandu. The increase in public transport fares has come into effect in Bagmati Province. Following the decision of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Transport of the province, the new fare rates for vehicles operating on petroleum products have been implemented after the publication of a notice in the gazette.

The ministry stated that the new rates were determined by reviewing the fares that were in effect since २०८० भदौ ७, based on the Province Fare Determination and Adjustment Regulations, 2078, market price fluctuations, and the prevailing Financial Act.

Under the new arrangement, fares for passenger public transport operating within the Kathmandu Valley have been increased by 25.96 percent. Similarly, fares for taxi services operating on petroleum products have been increased by 12.39 percent, passenger vehicles outside the valley by 17.35 percent, and cargo vehicles by 26.79 percent.

However, fares for electric passenger vehicles and taxi services remain unchanged. The ministry clarified that the rates applicable since २०७९ वैशाख १ will continue to remain in effect for those vehicles.

Extensive discussions were held with stakeholders before the fare adjustment. During the process, a team including Rajendra Bikram Baniya, President of the Federation of Truck Transport Entrepreneurs Nepal, and General Secretary Badri Prasad Chaulagain visited the ministry. They expressed the view that fare adjustment was necessary due to rising fuel prices, increased operating costs, and pressure on the transport sector.

The meeting was also attended by Punya Prasad Sitaula, Senior Vice President of the Federation of Nepalese National Transport Entrepreneurs, and Dolnath Khanal, President of the Federation of Public Transport Entrepreneurs, along with other officials and members.

The government stated that the fare adjustment was made in view of rising fuel prices, operating costs, and pressure from entrepreneurs.