KATHMANDU: Public transport across Nepal came to a complete halt on Monday after the Central Struggle Committee to Save Public Transport launched an indefinite nationwide strike.

The committee is protesting a new Gandaki Province regulation that permits private vehicles to operate as ride-sharing services.

Transport operators argue the move violates the Constitution and the Vehicle and Transport Management Act.

Despite submitting petitions and a formal seven-point demand letter to federal and provincial authorities, the committee says no action was taken, prompting the strike.

As a result, public vehicles remain off the roads and idle in garages, leaving commuters stranded in cities and towns.

With no buses or micros running, many are walking long distances while others are turning to ride-sharing platforms like Pathao and Indrive to reach their destinations.

Private vehicles, however, are moving freely, highlighting the standstill in the public transport sector.

The committee warned that the government will bear full responsibility for the consequences of the strike, which began on Jestha 19 (Monday), and urged public support to “save public transport.”