KATHMANDU: Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Devendra Dahal, has criticized transport operators for continuing their strike even after an agreement was reached with the federal government.
Speaking at a meeting of the Infrastructure Development Committee under the House of Representatives on Tuesday in Singha Durbar, Minister Dahal said the Gandaki Province Government had been requested to suspend its new ride-sharing regulations, and that the issue would be managed through federal law thereafter.
He questioned why transport operators were still keeping vehicles off the road despite this understanding.
“The strike at this point is not appropriate,” said Minister Dahal. “Ride-sharing is serving the public, and our intention is only to bring it under regulation. Transport operators should present their concerns to the government and act responsibly.”
During the meeting, several committee members raised concerns that the agreement between the government and transport operators could encourage monopolistic practices in the transport sector.
Committee member Prakash Jwala objected to what he called a deal that protects transport syndicates. He said the Gandaki Province’s decision to allow regulated ride-sharing was a step in the right direction and should be adopted in other provinces too.
Another member, Madhav Sapkota, said the deal with transport operators lacked clarity and urged the government to publicly explain its terms.
Dayal Bahadur Shahi, also a member of the committee, stressed that the government should not be intimidated by the transport lobby and must avoid giving in to unfair demands.
Other lawmakers highlighted the ongoing suffering of the public due to the strike and called on the government to resolve the crisis as soon as possible.
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