Kathmandu: Public transport operators in Nepal have urged the government to adjust passenger fares, arguing that the recent rise in fuel prices has significantly increased operating costs.
In a statement issued Monday, the Nepal Transport Entrepreneurs National Federation said the latest fuel price hike and disruptions in petroleum supply have directly affected the operation of public transport services.
The federation noted that petroleum products are the primary cost component for running public transportation, and the sudden price increase has had a direct impact on both transport operators and commuters.
According to the Nepal Oil Corporation, diesel prices were increased by Rs 10 per litre and petrol by Rs 15 per litre, effective from March 15.
Although there is a provision to adjust public transport fares based on a scientific formula, the federation said fares have not been revised for a long time. The Department of Transport Management has an automatic fare adjustment mechanism that should respond to changes in fuel prices, but operators claim that the system has not been implemented consistently in recent months.
The federation said public transport fares are calculated using 13 different indicators, including fuel prices, and argued that the recent fuel hike has affected multiple cost factors. It has therefore called on the government to immediately revise fares using the established scientific method.
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