Govt. takes back 622 vehicles used illegally by ex-officials

By TRN Online, Kathmandu, April 28: The government has taken concrete steps towards good governance by bringing an end to the extreme exploitation of the country's limited resources and means. 

The government has taken 622 vehicles from the employees and officials who were using government vehicles by exploiting their power and status.

Services against law brought to end  

According to a preliminary investigation conducted by the Prime Minister's Secretariat, there is a legal provision that only gazette first-class officials or above are entitled to government vehicles.

There is a legal provision that only gazette first-class officials or above are entitled to government vehicles are entitled to use of government vehicles as per the preliminary investigation of the Secretariat of the Prime Minister. However, it was revealed that officials ranking lower than legally prescribed have been rampantly using the four-wheeled vehicles, compelling the Office of Prime Minister and Council of Ministers to start the seizing process. 

Earlier, on April 20, the Prime Minister's Office had issued a circular to all ministries, agencies, and constitutional commissions, directing them to immediately return vehicles being used by employees other than those specified by law. Based on the same directive, 622 vehicles have been returned so far.

New rule of using vehicle collectively when in need 

In the coming days, no one except officials specified by law will be allowed to use government vehicles individually.

 However, in the special nature of work or in difficult circumstances, arrangements have been made for employees and officials at all levels to use vehicles collectively.

Aims to relieve financial burden 

The government has taken this step in view of the rising prices of petroleum products in the international market and the country's economic situation.

It is believed that this step will relieve the financial burden that is being incurred in the name of gas, repair, and services. 

The Prime Minister's Office said that a detailed study is underway to determine the financial burden on the state due to the illegal use of vehicles.

This government campaign to reduce wasteful expenditure on the state treasury and maintain administrative discipline is expected to add a new dimension to good governance.