KATHMANDU: A writ petition has been filed in the Supreme Court demanding an end to the ongoing public transport strike that has brought services to a halt across Kathmandu and other major cities.

Advocate Bimal Pokharel, who filed the petition, argued that the strike violates citizens’ basic and fundamental rights to free movement and access to essential services.

He urged the Supreme Court to issue an immediate order to lift the strike and restore public transport services.

The strike, enforced by transport entrepreneurs protesting against ride-sharing services, has caused severe hardship for daily commuters reliant on public vehicles.

General commuters continued to face difficulties today as the shutdown disrupted normal travel.

In contrast, ride-sharing platforms like Pathao and InDrive experienced increased demand, with usually overcrowded bus stops now seeing many passengers opting for these alternatives.

Some vehicles, including Mayur Yatayat buses, Thankot-bound vehicles, and a limited number of rental taxis, were still operating amid the strike.

The Supreme Court is scheduled to hold an initial hearing on the petition on Wednesday to consider the urgency and legal grounds of the case.