KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) has proposed halting bus operations at night due to elevated risks during the monsoon season. This recommendation follows a tragic incident where two buses fell into the Trishuli River after a landslide on the Narayanghat-Mugling road, resulting in missing passengers. Dr. Bhisma Kumar Bhusal, head of the Ministry's Division of Disaster and Conflict Management, is leading discussions with transport industry representatives about this proposal.
The MoHA's suggestion stems from the increased likelihood of natural disasters during the monsoon, prompting talks about implementing a nighttime travel ban. This mirrors a 2022 decision by the Makwanpur District Administration to stop buses traveling to Kathmandu via Tribhuvan Rajpath at night due to similar risks. However, transport entrepreneurs argue that halting nighttime bus services is not the solution. Saroj Sitaula, Senior Vice President of the Nepal National Transport Entrepreneurs Federation, emphasized that enhancing road safety should be the government's priority instead.
In response to the Chitwan incident, the MoHA held an emergency meeting to gather information and discuss the nighttime bus service proposal during the monsoon. Transport entrepreneurs were also invited to contribute to the discussion, reflecting ongoing efforts to address the safety concerns while balancing the needs of the transportation industry.
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