27th January 2025, Kathmandu
The Kathmandu Valley police have stepped up efforts to address the growing issue of offline ride-sharing services. In the past seven months, authorities have taken legal action against over 1,000 drivers who have operated outside the designated online platforms, violating regulations.
Kathmandu Police Intensify Crackdown
Direct Action Against Offline Drivers
To combat this issue, the police have introduced new measures allowing on-duty officers to impose penalties directly on drivers found offering offline services. Deputy Superintendent of Police, Poornima Kumari Chand, confirmed that the crackdown has intensified, with penalties for offline activity steadily increasing in number.
January Sees the Highest Number of Violations
January 2025 saw the largest number of penalties, with more than 260 drivers caught attempting to operate offline. This marked a significant uptick in enforcement actions, underscoring the police’s commitment to curbing the practice.
Concerns Over Rising Fares and Service Availability
Beyond offline services, passengers have voiced growing concerns over the rising cost of rides, particularly during high-demand periods. Ride-sharing companies have been accused of taking advantage of passengers when public transport options are limited, increasing fares during peak hours or bad weather.
Passenger Complaints Highlight Online Ride Scarcity
Ravin Dahal, a resident, expressed frustration over the scarcity of online rides, especially in the evening. “When I can find a ride, it’s usually offline, which means the fares are much higher,” he said. “This not only results in inflated prices but also compromises the safety of passengers.”
Ride-Sharing Apps Gain Popularity, But Challenges Persist
The use of ride-sharing services like Pathao and inDrive has become increasingly popular in Kathmandu and other major cities. These apps have transformed how people navigate urban areas, providing an accessible and convenient means of transport. However, as the demand for these services grows, new challenges have emerged, such as price inflation and the prevalence of offline operations.
Crackdown Aims to Ensure Fair Practices
The police’s crackdown on offline drivers aims to restore fairness within the ride-sharing market. By addressing these issues, the government hopes to ensure that both drivers and passengers operate in a transparent, fair environment.
Government Faces Pressure to Strengthen Regulations
As the popularity of ride-sharing continues to grow, there is mounting pressure on the government to implement stricter regulations. Measures are needed to address concerns such as overcharging and the lack of ride availability during peak times, ensuring that the service remains reliable for all users.
Balancing Growth and Fairness in the Ride-Sharing Industry
The future of ride-sharing in Nepal hinges on the government’s ability to balance the rapid growth of the market with the need for fair regulations. By regulating offline services and addressing pricing concerns, the authorities can create a more reliable and equitable experience for passengers and drivers alike.
