The mountainous district of Manang is set to launch public bus services for the first time, with the aim of facilitating affordable and accessible transportation service for locals and tourists.
A meeting chaired by Chief District Officer (CDO) Matrika Acharya on Sunday decided to introduce public bus service in the district. The meeting was attended by security agency chiefs, officials of the transport entrepreneurs committee, local representatives, and the head of the Infrastructure Development Office.
CDO Acharya stated that the initiative will make transportation in Manang more systematic, accessible, and convenient. "For the first time, public buses will operate in this geographically remote district," he said. "This service will benefit locals, tourists, and government employees by offering a safer and more affordable travel option."
Until now, only five-seater pickup jeeps have been available for passengers in Manang, leading to high fares, unsafe travel conditions, and limited seating. Officials believe the introduction of public buses will significantly improve transport management, making travel easier and more cost-effective while also facilitating goods transportation.
The Disaster Management Committee had previously decided to operate passenger buses on the Besisahar-Chame road section, but the plan was never implemented. Sunday’s meeting has now reapproved the decision and initiated the process to launch the bus service with immediate effect.
Since operating buses requires a route license, CDO Acharya said transport entrepreneurs, including Lamjung Kalika Pvt. Ltd., will be asked to apply to the relevant authority for the permit.
Given the risks along the Besisahar-Chame road section, officials plan to identify and repair hazardous areas to ensure safe and systematic bus operations. The Infrastructure Development Office and transport entrepreneurs will work together to accelerate road improvements, according to CDO Acharya.
"We will coordinate with the Road Division Office Damauli, the Dumre-Besisahar-Chame Road Project, hydropower projects, and local governments to upgrade high-risk sections," CDO Acharya added.
