KATHMANDU: The Government of Nepal has temporarily suspended the registration of new public transport vehicles across the country, including electric public vehicles.
The Department of Transport Management (DoTM) issued an official notice on May 20, 2026, directing all provincial ministries and local authorities to stop new registrations until further notice.
According to the notice, the decision was taken due to the lack of scientific management in the public transport sector, which has contributed to rising air pollution, increasing traffic congestion, pressure on roads, and difficulties in vehicle movement.
The department said the growing operational challenges in public transportation and the rising cost of fuel have also created disorder in the sector, making immediate management measures necessary.
Citing Section 14(3) of the Vehicle and Transport Management Act, 1993, the DoTM stated that the government can halt vehicle registrations in the public interest if environmental pollution, traffic pressure, road conditions, or other transport-related issues worsen.
Based on this provision, the government has decided to suspend the registration of all new public transport vehicles, including electric public transport vehicles, until a new notice is issued.
The notice has been sent to all seven provincial ministries responsible for transport management and to local governments for implementation.
As per the constitution, provincial governments have the authority over public transport, including vehicle registration and tax collection. Now, it remains to be seen whether the provinces will accept the center’s intervention or not.
