Parliament forms sub-committee to curb transport disorder during Dashain-Tihar

The House of Representatives' Infrastructure Development Committee has formed a special sub-committee to manage the increased passenger flow during Dashain, Tihar and Chhath, and to curb arbitrary practices in public transport.

The committee's meeting decided to form the sub-committee under Rule 185 of the House of Representatives Regulations, 2083. Dhanendra Karki is the coordinator, while Asha Jha, Purna Prasad Limbu and Manju Bhusal are members. The committee said one more member will be appointed.

The sub-committee will study crowding during festivals, overcharging of fares, irregularities in ticket sales and the state of road safety, and suggest measures for improvement. It will also examine the availability of vehicles relative to passenger flow and the state of route management, and offer necessary policy and practical suggestions to help passengers reach their destinations conveniently.

On road safety, it will look at the state of control over practices such as carrying passengers beyond capacity, overspeeding and driving under the influence of alcohol. Driver management and driver safety on long-distance vehicles will also be part of the study.

The sub-committee will conduct field monitoring of landslides, road repairs, under-construction sections and possible traffic jams on major highways, and suggest measures. For this, it will hold discussions with the concerned ministries, the Department of Transport Management, Traffic Police, District Administration Offices, local levels and transport entrepreneurs.

The sub-committee must submit its report to the Infrastructure Development Committee within three months of starting its work.