FNNTE urges govt to introduce automatic reductions in transport fares

KATHMANDU: Federation of Nepalese National Transport Entrepreneurs (FNNTE) has urged the government to introduce automatic reductions in transport fares after petrol and diesel prices were cut on Wednesday.

Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) lowered the price of petrol by Rs 20 per litre and diesel and kerosene by Rs 30 per litre, effective from Wednesday morning. In response, FNNTE President Punya Prasad Sitoula asked that fares be adjusted under the automated fare adjustment system.

“Along with the fluctuations in the price of petroleum products, the fare for public transport also needs to be adjusted in a transparent, scientific, and objective way. The tendency of raising fares when fuel prices go up but not adjusting them in time when prices drop has created confusion for both passengers and transport operators,” Sitoula said.

Sitoula said fare calculations should take into account not only fuel costs but also vehicle operating expenses, maintenance, insurance, workers’ wages, the cost of spare parts, banking costs and broader economic indicators, all evaluated on a scientific basis.

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