Manang, a remote district nestled in the Himalayas, is set to launch its first-ever public bus service, a move that is expected to greatly benefit both locals and tourists. This initiative comes as a part of the efforts to make transportation more accessible and comfortable for residents and visitors in the region.
The decision to introduce public buses was made in a coordination meeting chaired by Chief District Officer (CDO) Matrika Acharya. The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including the heads of security agencies, officials from the Transport Entrepreneurs’ Committee, local representatives, and the head of the Infrastructure Development Office. This collaborative approach aims to ensure the smooth implementation of the service and its alignment with the needs of the local community.
CDO Acharya stated that the goal of the public bus service is to make travel easier and more affordable for the people of Manang. “By operating public transport, we aim to offer an organized, accessible, and straightforward travel option for the local residents, tourists, and government employees,” he said. “Introducing public transportation in a geographically challenging area like Manang is a significant achievement. This service will greatly improve travel conditions for both locals and visitors.”
Currently, Manang relies on five-seat pickup jeeps as the primary means of public transport. These jeeps have been inadequate for meeting the transportation needs of passengers, with travelers facing difficulties such as uncomfortable rides, high fares, and safety concerns. The introduction of the public bus service is expected to alleviate these issues, offering a more affordable and safer travel option for passengers. Furthermore, it will ease the transport of goods, making logistics more efficient for the region.
The decision to introduce public buses also comes with the expectation that it will enhance transportation management in the district. According to CDO Acharya, the buses will make travel more convenient, allowing residents, tourists, and government workers to travel with ease and at reasonable prices. This initiative is expected to bring a substantial improvement in the overall transportation system of Manang, which has long struggled with unreliable and expensive travel options.
The transport committee and local authorities had previously made decisions regarding the operation of buses on the Besisahar-Chame road section, but due to various challenges, the implementation of those plans had been delayed. However, the recent coordination meeting reaffirmed the decision, with the process to launch the bus service moving forward. CDO Acharya emphasized that the service will be implemented immediately, with the necessary legal and procedural steps being taken to facilitate its launch.
As part of the preparations, transport entrepreneurs, including the Lamjung Kalika Transport Company, will be required to apply for the necessary route permits from the concerned authorities. This is a crucial step in ensuring that the buses operate within the legal framework and meet the necessary safety and regulatory standards. CDO Acharya also mentioned that efforts would be made to ensure the smooth facilitation of these applications, with the relevant stakeholders coordinating with the local authorities.
One of the primary challenges faced by the new bus service is the condition of the Besisahar-Chame road, which is considered to be risky for travel. To ensure the safety and efficiency of the new bus service, the authorities plan to conduct repairs and improvements on the problematic sections of the road. CDO Acharya assured that necessary repairs and upgrades would be carried out in coordination with the Transport Entrepreneurs, the Infrastructure Development Office, and other relevant agencies.
“The road sections identified as being problematic will be upgraded and maintained with the help of various agencies, including the Road Division Office in Damouli, the Dumre-Besisahar-Chame Road Project, and the local government,” CDO Acharya added. This focused approach to improving road safety is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the public transport system in Manang, which is known for its rugged terrain and challenging geographical features.
This initiative reflects a growing effort to improve infrastructure in Nepal’s remote regions, making them more accessible to both residents and tourists. Manang, which attracts numerous trekkers and adventure travelers due to its proximity to the Annapurna Circuit, is expected to see increased tourist footfall as a result of the improved transportation options. In addition to enhancing local mobility, the bus service will contribute to boosting tourism in the area, offering visitors a more convenient and comfortable means of exploring the beautiful Himalayan landscape.
The introduction of public buses in Manang is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the lives of people living in remote regions. By enhancing connectivity and making transportation more affordable, this project is expected to transform the travel experience in Manang, benefiting the local community, tourists, and government employees alike.
The launch of public buses in Manang is a significant milestone in the region’s transportation development. By addressing the issues of high fares, safety concerns, and lack of accessibility, the bus service will improve the quality of life for residents and offer tourists a more convenient and comfortable way to explore the district. With continued efforts to improve road infrastructure, this initiative will lay the groundwork for a more connected and prosperous Manang in the years to come.
