Govt plans free ‘Blue Bus’ service for women across seven Provinces
In the Kathmandu Valley, the government is working in coordination with Sajha Yatayat to operate at least seven buses under the Blue Bus service.
KATHMANDU: The government has moved forward with preparations to launch a free “Blue Bus” service aimed at ensuring safe, convenient, and dignified public transportation for women across all seven provinces.
Under the government’s 100-day action plan, the initiative targets improved safety and accessibility for female passengers, with an initial plan to operate at least 25 buses within the timeframe.
In the Kathmandu Valley, the government is working in coordination with Sajha Yatayat to operate at least seven buses under the Blue Bus service.
Outside the capital, preparations are underway in collaboration with provincial transport entrepreneurs’ associations to deploy at least 18 buses across different provinces.
According to officials, Sajha Yatayat has already submitted a draft proposal outlining operational procedures, schedules, cost estimates, and management responsibilities.
Based on this proposal, administrative and technical preparations are being carried out.
The service is expected to be expanded gradually, with the government also proposing budget allocations and programs in the upcoming fiscal year to extend Blue Bus operations across all seven provinces.
Authorities believe the initiative will particularly benefit students, workers, employees, and women who rely on daily public transportation by providing a safer and more respectful travel environment.
It is also expected to help reduce harassment and improve overall safety perception in public transport.
Alongside this initiative, the government is prioritizing the installation of CCTV cameras and panic alarm systems in public vehicles to help control gender-based violence and crimes in public transport.
So far, CCTV and alarm systems have been installed in 111 buses of Sajha Yatayat, 46 buses of metropolitan transport operators, and three buses of Panchpokhari Sunulo Yatayat, with expansion work ongoing in other vehicles.
The ministry has also prepared a draft standard for making public transport more technology-friendly, safe, and passenger-oriented, which has been submitted for approval. Traffic police have been assigned for monitoring and enforcement to ensure effective implementation.
