Pokhara Metropolis to operate free electric shuttle buses

By our correspondent 

Lekhnath, Apr. 14: Following inconvenience in accessing Pokhara International Airport, Pokhara Metropolitan City has decided to operate free electric shuttle buses in the area.

Passengers have complained that taxi operators charge exorbitant fares for travel from the airport, which lies approximately two kilometres off the Prithvi Highway. 

With no alternative public transport available and taxi services being costly, the metropolitan city is set to introduce a comfortable electric shuttle bus service between the airport and Amarsingh Chowk.

According to information officer Krishna Prasad Tiwari, the service will commence from the New Year and will remain free of charge for passengers until mid-July.

“The buses will operate in coordination with the airport administration, particularly during flight arrivals and departures,” he said.

“Initially, two buses will be deployed. A nominal fare will be introduced after mid-July,” he added. 

The service will be operated through a partnership between the metropolitan city, various financial institutions, and motor service companies.

Mayor Dhanraj Acharya informed that the initiative is being launched as a New Year’s gift to the residents of Pokhara. 

“This service will make it easier for passengers to travel between the airport and the main market area,” he said.

The metropolitan city is currently preparing either to identify partners or to bear the operational costs itself until mid-July. Each electric bus costs approximately Rs. 13 million, according to the city authorities.

Additionally, a Risk Reduction Centre is also set to come into operation from Tuesday.