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The Federation of Nepalese National Transport Entrepreneurs has urged the government to waive customs duties on electric vehicle (EV) spare parts and introduce measures to promote environmentally friendly public transportation.

A delegation led by Federation President Punya Prasad (Saroj) Sitaula met Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle on Monday and submitted an 11-point memorandum seeking immediate measures to address long-standing challenges facing Nepal’s transport sector.

The federation said the public transportation sector represents an investment of around Rs. 1.3 trillion and provides livelihoods to approximately 4 million families, urging the government to take immediate steps to safeguard the sector and those dependent on it.

Among its key demands, the federation called for the immediate implementation of the report submitted by the inquiry commission chaired by former secretary Deepak Subedi. It also sought timely revision of the Motor Insurance Rate Directive, 2073, and requested that the Nepal Insurance Authority issue necessary directives to address problems in vehicle insurance.

The transport entrepreneurs have proposed establishing an Accident Relief Fund by levying an additional Rs. 1 per litre on diesel and petrol and Rs. 1 per unit on electricity used by electric vehicles. They also called for the fund to be strengthened through a contribution equivalent to 1 percent of insurance premiums, along with an allocation from the government.

The federation further demanded tighter controls on vehicle imports, the scrapping of the 72-hour facility currently provided to Indian cargo and passenger vehicles, amendments to the Companies Act, and the introduction of a uniform taxation system for the transport sector.

For the modernization of public transportation, the federation has called for government subsidies to encourage technology-friendly vehicles and services. It also urged the government to establish a powerful Transport Authority to ensure effective regulation, management and development of the sector.

The delegation additionally requested a review of the operating hours for tipper trucks in the Kathmandu Valley, citing the need for more effective management of transport activities.

Receiving the memorandum, Finance Minister Dr. Wagle said the government was positive about addressing the transport sector’s legitimate concerns. He assured the delegation that the ministry would study the demands and take appropriate measures based on the findings.