No advance bus ticket booking for Dashain & Tihar this year

KATHMANDU: The Department of Transport Management has decided not to open advance bus ticket booking for this year’s Dashain, Tihar, and other festivals.

The decision came after a meeting held Tuesday at the Department’s office in Min Bhawan, Kathmandu, involving all relevant stakeholders.

According to Vijay Bahadur Swar, President of the National Federation of Transport Entrepreneurs, the student holidays following the recent Gen-Z movement have already triggered a rush of travelers returning home. “With universities already on break and approximately 50,000 passengers leaving from Gongabu Bus Park alone, there is no need for advance bookings. Tickets will be available 3–4 days prior to travel,” Swar explained.

He emphasized that passengers should avoid crowding and instead purchase tickets a few days before departure. Swar added that authorities are coordinating with the Road Department to ensure roads are passable and that sufficient buses, including local Kathmandu vehicles, are made available to accommodate travelers.

Director General of the Department of Transport Management, Rajiv Pokharel, said the meeting focused on facilitating smooth travel during the festival season. “We have discussed all aspects of managing travel, including departure from and arrival to Kathmandu Valley, road management, and service delivery. Decisions taken will be implemented immediately,” he stated.

Senior Deputy Superintendent of Police (SSP) Basanta Rajoure assured passengers that the police are fully prepared to provide security and assistance. “Any fraud or malpractice affecting passengers will be dealt with strictly. Drivers and operators must act in good faith. The police will be stationed at the Citizen Assistance Desk to ensure safe and orderly travel,” he said.

Authorities have urged passengers to plan their journeys responsibly and assured that necessary measures are in place to maintain smooth and secure transportation during the festive season.