The agitating transport operators, who are against the government crackdown on transport syndicates, halted their services from Friday in Kathmandu valley, causing hardships to commuters. Members of general public were hit hard due to the strike as they faced difficulties to reach their destinations.

However, private vehicles across the valley have been offering lift to people.

Likewise, bus companies including Mayur Yatayat, Sajha Yatayat, Annapurna Yatayat, among others have rallied behind the government’s move against the organised transport syndicate companies and are offering their services.

A large number of people, heading for offices and colleges, were seen waiting for public vehicles at various bus stops.

The DoTM has confirmed that necessary security arrangements have been made in conjunction with the District Administration Office for the transport companies to operate their bus services in all 77 districts.

Besides making security arrangements, the DoTM has said the buses registered under a company will not require a route-permit for Friday. However, it has urged the transport companies to operate their vehicles, covering both their regular routes and beyond.

Meanwhile, despite the government’s stand to break the transport cartel it seems to have done little to give respite to the public following the transport committees’ protest.

The transport entrepreneurs are adamant not to call off the protest until the government revokes its decision of mandatory company registration and amendment to the Transport Management Directive-2004, said Bhattarai.

Photos by: Angad Dhakal