KATHMANDU: Employees’ unions at the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) have voiced strong opposition to the government’s plan to split the authority into two entities.
The Nepal National Employees’ Organization at CAAN submitted a memorandum to Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, expressing its discontent over the proposal.
The union raised concerns over the bill registered by Minister Pandey in the House of Representatives on February 25, arguing that the move would dismantle the existing structure and pave the way for private sector influence in key executive positions, investment, and operations.
They claimed the proposal aims to privatize profit-making airports and benefit vested interests rather than strengthening regulatory capacity and operational efficiency.
The union also criticized the lack of consultation with employees before moving forward with the restructuring, stating that the decision could have long-term negative impacts on Nepal’s aviation safety.
If their concerns are not addressed within seven days, the union has warned of a series of protests.
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