KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Metropolitan City, in coordination with Sajha Yatayat, is set to launch nighttime public transport services from April 14 (Baisakh 1) in a bid to improve mobility and safety for commuters.
Acting Mayor Sunita Dangol said the initiative comes in response to the lack of public transport after 8:00 pm, which has forced people to rely on expensive travel options. She noted that the absence of reliable transport has particularly affected students, women, and young girls, who often face financial burdens and safety concerns.
“People have been facing difficulties due to the lack of public transport and alternatives. Women and young girls, in particular, have faced harassment, while students are under financial strain. We are introducing this service to address these issues,” Dangol said.
The metropolitan city aims to develop a modern, integrated, safe, and reliable public transport system and has expressed readiness to collaborate with partners to achieve this goal.
Two routes have been designated for the service. One route will run from Lagankhel through Patan Hospital, Alka, Norvic, Prasuti Griha, Trauma Center, Bir Hospital, Kanti Hospital, Teaching Hospital, and Gangalal Heart Center to Budhanilkantha, covering a one-way distance of 16 kilometers. The second route will operate from Thankot through Satungal, Kalanki, Kalimati, Tripureshwor, Thapathali, Maitighar Mandala, Baneshwor, Minbhawan, and Tinkune to the International Airport, covering 20 kilometers one way.
A total of four electric buses will operate along these routes from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm, with buses arriving at designated stops every 20 minutes. The buses will be equipped with CCTV cameras, and municipal police personnel will be deployed to ensure passenger safety.
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