The Department of Transport Management (DoTM) has proceeded with installing GPS on public transport vehicles. The move will help minimize accidents on public vehicles, help with rescue operations, track vehicles’ locations, and improve the overall service for all.
The initiative was first implemented on select vehicles that operated from Kathmandu to Pokhara and from Kathmandu to Birgunj. It was two years ago. But after the pilot project, the DoTM has started formulating a working procedure for the installation of GPS on public vehicles operating across Nepal.
Director General of the Department of Transport Management, Rajiv Pokharel, confirmed that the process of formulating a procedure for installing GPS on public vehicles has been taken forward. He said that a committee has been formed to prepare the procedure. ‘GPS should be installed to make public transport service more systematic and also minimize accidents.’
He also pointed out the tragic accident that took place in Simaltal, where two buses were swept away into the Trishuli river, and said that a study report into the accident suggested the need for a GPS system.
The ‘National Transport Policy, 2081’ proposed by the government mentions the implementation of a GPS system on public vehicles.
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GPS will be installed on public vehicles after discussions with transport entrepreneurs
He said that the government will hold dialogues with transport entrepreneurs for GPS (Global Positioning System) installation.
“It is not easy for the government to install GPS in public vehicles. We will move forward in collaboration with transport entrepreneurs. We have recently had discussions with entrepreneurs,” he said.
The cost for the installation of the system and who will bear it, and other matters, will be followed in accordance with the working procedure.
In addition to GPS on public vehicles, the government is also planning on digital tickets, security, etc.