From today, an indefinite nationwide transport strike has begun

Kathmandu, 02 June: On the call of the Public Transport Rescue Central Struggle Committee, public transport garages across the country will remain closed from Monday, said Bhim Jwala Rai, President of the Nepal Transport Independent Workers’ Organization, in an interview with Ratopati.

Transport entrepreneurs have announced an indefinite nationwide strike starting Monday, protesting against the Gandaki Provincial Government’s new regulations allowing privately owned vehicles purchased for personal use to operate as ride-sharing services.

Bhim Jwala Rai, President of the Nepal Transport Independent Workers’ Union, informed Ratopati that the Public Transport Rescue Central Struggle Committee has decided to halt all public transport services, keeping vehicles parked in garages.

He stated that they have demanded the withdrawal of the Gandaki Provincial Government’s policy that permits ride-sharing services using private vehicles, arguing that it harms traditional taxi and public transport businesses. Despite submitting a memorandum urging authorities to address the issue promptly, no action was taken, leading to the protest.

Meanwhile, in a statement issued on Sunday by the Public Transport Rescue Central Struggle Committee, it was stated:

*”Since the Government of Nepal bears full responsibility for the consequences of this situation, we earnestly appeal to all stakeholders—general consumers, passengers, laborers, and employees—to support our movement in any way possible from their respective sectors starting from 2082/2/19 (Monday), to help save public transport.”*

The indefinite transport strike in Gandaki Province has been ongoing since Jestha 16 (May 30).

The strike was launched by public transport operators protesting against the provincial government’s regulation that allows private vehicles to operate as ride-sharing services, which they argue undermines the public transport sector.

Key Details of the Strike:

• Reason: Protest against the Gandaki Provincial Government’s ride-sharing policy, allowing private vehicles to operate like taxis.

• Demand: Cancellation of the policy, claiming it harms traditional taxi and public transport businesses.

• Action: All public transport vehicles remained parked in garages indefinitely.

• Appeal: The strike committee urged passengers, workers, and the public to support their movement.

Impact:

• Disruption in public transport services across Gandaki Province (including Pokhara, Baglung, Syangja, etc.).

• Possible effects on tourism, daily commuters, and businesses.