Transport entrepreneurs announce protest with 7-point demand

KATHMANDU: Transport entrepreneurs have announced a protest program, putting forward a seven-point demand, citing increasing threats to investment and employment in the public transport sector.

In a joint press conference, the Federation of Nepal Transport Entrepreneurs, the Central Federation of Public Transport, the Federation of Nepal Truck Transport Entrepreneurs, the Federation of Transport Entrepreneurs, the Nepal Transport Independent Workers’ Organization, and the Nepal Transport Workers’ Association announced the protest plan.

These organizations have formed a joint body named the Central Struggle Committee to Save Public Transport.

According to the entrepreneurs, the public transport sector—providing direct employment to around 1.5 million people—is facing a serious risk of displacement. They argue that due to the lack of supportive policies and rising challenges, the sector is in crisis.

As part of the protest, they will begin by submitting memorandums to all ministries. On Jestha 14 (May 28), they plan to submit a formal demand letter to the Chief Minister.

Similarly, on Jestha 18 (June 1), they will hold nationwide protests by displaying black flags. Furthermore, starting Jestha 19 (June 2), they have announced an indefinite nationwide shutdown by keeping all public vehicles parked in garages.

Entrepreneurs claim that without immediate government intervention and policy reform, the public transport sector could collapse, displacing millions and severely affecting the country’s mobility infrastructure.