The government has drafted a new directive requiring public transport vehicles to be equipped with GPS devices and at least two CCTV cameras. Mobile apps and digital systems will be mandatory for online ticket purchase and payment. Additionally, there are plans to issue directives mandating the installation of fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency assistance buttons. Kathmandu, 8 Baishakh – From now on, GPS (Global Positioning System) must be compulsorily installed in all public transport vehicles. The Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport has prepared a draft directive for 2082 focused on making vehicles technologically advanced, healthy, safe, dignified, and passenger-friendly. Through this directive, the government aims to enforce mandatory GPS installation on vehicles. The Department of Transport Management is proposed to provide technical support for this initiative.
It will be the responsibility of drivers, conductors, and vehicle owners to ensure proper operation and monitoring of these devices. The installed equipment must include mandatory geographic tracking, overspeed warning systems, ignition on/off alerts, and route information. The ministry has scheduled discussions with stakeholders next week to finalize the directive. This new directive is intended to replace the amendments made under Clause 11 of the Transport Management Procedural Directive 2060 and repeal the Public Transport Code 2067.
The responsibility to install CCTV cameras will lie with the respective vehicle owners. While taxis are exempt from mandatory CCTV installation, the department will provide technical assistance if requested by the owner. CCTV footage must be securely stored for a minimum of three months. The installed devices must fulfill the condition of recording all activities occurring inside the vehicle.
Systems enabling online ticketing and payments via mobile app or other platforms must be developed. Payment for transport services must be processed through government-approved payment gateways or Quick Response (QR) codes. Furthermore, public transport vehicles are required to be equipped with fire extinguishers and first aid kits, and drivers and conductors must receive minimum necessary training on their use.
