Kathmandu Valley to Roll Out Free 'Blue Bus' Service for Women Starting July 17
As part of its 100-point governance reform agenda, the government is set to launch a dedicated, free "Blue Bus" service for women in the Kathmandu Valley, deploying an initial fleet of eight buses across three high-traffic routes.
In a major effort to ensure safe, dignified, and comfortable public transportation for female commuters, the government is finalizing preparations to launch a dedicated "Blue Bus" service in the Kathmandu Valley. Scheduled to begin operations on July 17 (Saun 2), the initiative represents the pilot phase of an ambitious national policy to eventually expand free public transport networks for women across all seven provinces. The project is driven by the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport as a top priority within the government's 100-day action plan. While the ultimate target is to deploy a fleet of 25 specialized buses, the first phase will see eight vehicles hit the roads. Ram Hari Pokharel, spokesperson for the Ministry, confirmed that the public transport cooperative Sajha Yatayat has already requested the necessary financial approvals and consultations from the Ministry of Finance. Operations will commence immediately upon receiving formal budgetary clearance.