MYAGDI: A passenger bus has reached Malkawang in Dhawalagiri Rural Municipality-5, Myagdi, for the first time, marking a major milestone for the geographically remote settlement.
Locals warmly welcomed bus owner Jagat Dagami Magar (Bus No. Dha.1Kha. 308) and driver Shyam Mijar, who arrived in Malkawang on Saturday carrying passengers from the district headquarters, Benibazaar.
Ward Chair Amar Chantyal, along with people’s representatives, local leaders, mothers’ groups, and youth club members, gathered to receive the bus—the first to ever reach the area.
According to Ward Chair Chantyal, only jeeps, tractors, and motorcycles had reached Malkawang until now. Although the village was connected to the road network five years ago, passenger bus services had not begun until this week. With the start of bus operations, locals will now be able to travel at cheaper fares compared to smaller vehicles.
Previously, residents paid Rs 1,000 per person to travel from Malkawang to Beni by jeep. The bus fare has now been set at Rs 750 per person. The distance between Beni and Malkawang is 45 kilometers, and over 300 households in Malkawang, Bhedikhaldah, Kuinekhani, Arwang, and Ghantiwang are expected to benefit from the service.
Chantyal said the road has been repaired and improved to allow bus operation for at least eight months a year, except during the rainy season. Myagdi Yatayat Pvt. Ltd. will operate one bus daily—departing from Beni at 7:00 a.m. and from Malkawang at 8:00 a.m.
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