Delhi suspends Kathmandu bus service as Nepal unrest halts travel
The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) has suspended its cross-border Maitri Bus Sewa to Kathmandu after violent protests swept across Nepal, leaving the service stranded midway. Officials confirmed that one bus remains in Nepal but has been secured at a safe location, while another that had not crossed the border has been grounded in the capital.
The decision comes against the backdrop of Nepal’s most severe political upheaval in recent years, triggered by a ban on social media that provoked widespread anger. The demonstrations spiralled into deadly clashes near Kathmandu’s Parliament, resulting in at least 19 deaths and widespread disruption of public life. The turmoil eventually forced the resignation of the country’s prime minister and raised concerns over regional connectivity and safety.DTC officials emphasised that no passengers were onboard the bus that remains parked in Nepal, underscoring that precautionary measures were taken well in advance. Authorities in Delhi are coordinating with Indian and Nepali counterparts to ensure the safe return of the vehicle once order is restored. Private operators, however, are reported to have vehicles stuck in Nepal as well, raising broader concerns for the cross-border passenger transport network.
The Delhi-Kathmandu Maitri Bus Sewa, operational since 2014, has long been seen as a symbol of people-to-people connectivity, promoting tourism, cultural ties, and eco-friendly mobility between the two capitals. The 1,167-km route, serviced by luxury coaches thrice weekly, charges a fare of ₹2,800 per passenger. The suspension of this service underscores how political instability and security risks can disrupt sustainable transport corridors, which are critical for building resilient, low-carbon cities in South Asia.
Transport experts caution that prolonged suspension of international bus services not only disrupts affordable public mobility but also pushes travellers towards less sustainable options, such as short-haul flights. This shift adds to carbon emissions at a time when regional economies are striving for greener and more equitable transport systems. They argue that strengthening regional peace and cooperation is central to advancing low-emission mobility solutions.Officials have assured the public that the suspension is temporary and services will resume once conditions in Nepal stabilise. For now, the focus remains on ensuring safety, safeguarding infrastructure, and exploring alternative measures to maintain the spirit of cross-border connectivity in a sustainable and responsible manner.
