Kathmandu Valley, Nepal — Ticket bookings for public transport during the upcoming Dashain festival will commence this Saturday, as the Department of Transport Management anticipates a significant influx of nearly two million travelers leaving the Kathmandu Valley for the festivities.
Director General Rajiv Pokharel announced that transport operators will facilitate both online and counter bookings to manage the expected surge. “We have instructed operators to arrange online bookings wherever possible,” he stated, urging passengers to obtain tickets only from official staff wearing uniforms and identification badges at counters.
With an estimated two million people expected to travel during Dashain, the department has implemented 20 directives aimed at ensuring safe and efficient travel. Key measures include mandatory alcohol checks for drivers at major entry and exit points, as well as requiring two drivers on long-distance routes. Additionally, individuals under 18 are prohibited from serving as assistant drivers.
To assist travelers during Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath festivals, citizen help desks will be established at prominent locations, including Nagdhunga, Kalanki, Swayambhu, and Gongabu Bus Park. An inspection team composed of officials from various agencies will monitor travel arrangements, supported by provincial transport ministries.
Public transport operators on long and medium-distance routes are required to adhere to a designated queue system. Transport expert Ashish Gajurel emphasized that while bookings open annually, passengers still encounter challenges. “Bus operators don’t increase the number of buses during Dashain, despite rising demand. Authorities must boost the number of buses to alleviate travel difficulties,” he remarked.
In contrast, Saroj Sitaula, senior vice-president of the Federation of Nepalese National Transport Entrepreneurs, called for avoiding “unnecessary” vehicle checks to reduce inconvenience for passengers and drivers. He also underscored the necessity of repairing potholes to ensure smoother travel.
Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Devendra Dahal has directed the Department of Roads to complete nationwide road repairs before Ghatasthapana, the first day of the 15-day Dashain festival. While repairs are underway, delays attributed to the monsoon have been reported.
The Narayanghat-Butwal road, part of the East-West Highway, remains a significant concern, with only 52.7 percent of its upgrade completed after six years of construction and multiple deadline extensions. The Meteorological Forecasting Division has predicted rainfall in various parts of the country for the next few days, raising concerns about potential travel disruptions during Dashain. Other problematic sections, including Nagdhunga-Mugling and Mugling-Pokhara, have reported landslides and potholes along several highways, including the Mid-Hill, Madan Bhandari, Hulaki, and BP highways.
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