KATHMANDU: The number of passengers leaving Kathmandu for their hometowns has surged as people prepare to celebrate Dashain with their families.
People living in the capital for education, employment and other professional pursuits have begun returning to their villages in large numbers. Passenger traffic has increased at New Bus Park, with more people travelling to various districts across the country on both long- and short-distance public transport services.
The annual exodus reflects the tradition of reuniting with family members and relatives to celebrate Dashain, Nepal’s major festival.
Pankaj Malla, general manager of Lotse Multi-Purpose Pvt. Ltd., which operates Naya Bus Park, said that 207,251 passengers had left from the bus park during the reporting period.
The growing number of passengers heading home for Dashain has posed challenges for transport operators in managing travel demand and vehicle services.
Dekh Nath Gautam, general secretary of the National Federation of Nepal Transport Entrepreneurs, said road conditions had further complicated transport management during the festive rush.
He said traffic movement along the Prithvi Highway was disrupted by flooding at Galaudi in Dhading, the day advance ticket booking opened for Dashain travel. The disruption left many vehicles stranded in Kathmandu, adding to the difficulties faced by transport operators and passengers.
The federation has urged passengers to purchase tickets before travelling, pay only the prescribed fares and check the condition of vehicles to ensure safe journeys.
As Dashain brings families and communities together, the number of people returning home from Kathmandu for the festival continues to rise each year, creating a seasonal surge in demand for public transport.