Government Proposes Stronger Public Transport Authority for Kathmandu

The Government of Nepal has proposed amendments to the Urban Area Public Transport (Management) Authority Act, 2079 to establish a more integrated and efficient public transport system in the Kathmandu Valley. Under the draft amendment, the authority would be granted expanded powers to determine bus routes, issue route permits, set fares, prepare service schedules, and select transport service providers. The proposal also seeks to give the authority responsibility for implementing digital fare payment systems, monitoring compliance with approved routes and schedules, and managing fare collection and distribution. In addition, the authority would oversee the planning and management of transport infrastructure, including bus parks, bus stops, terminals, depots, dedicated bus lanes, parking areas, passenger waiting facilities, EV charging stations, traffic signals, and road signs. The draft bill also allows the authority to enter into special agreements with service providers for peak-hour and night services, with provisions for government subsidies where necessary. Furthermore, the proposed amendment restructures the authority's leadership by appointing the Federal Minister for Transport as Chairperson, the Bagmati Province Minister for Transport as Senior Vice-Chairperson, the Mayor of either Kathmandu or Lalitpur Metropolitan City on a rotational basis as Vice-Chairperson, and the Authority's Chief Executive as Member Secretary, aiming to strengthen coordination among federal, provincial, and local governments in managing public transportation.