Valley
Car ban in Capitals’ core areas from Tuesday
Having made Thamel a vehicle-free zone, the city authorities are imposing restrictions on use of four-wheel vehicles in key parts of Kathmandu starting on January 16.Having made Thamel a vehicle-free zone, the city authorities are imposing restrictions on use of four-wheel vehicles in key parts of Kathmandu starting on January 16.
Under the new regulation, Ason, Indrachowk, Chhetrapati among other core areas of the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) will be four-wheel vehicle-free zone.
The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC), the Metropolitan Traffic Police Division (MTPD) and representatives of wards 7, 18, 19, 22, 24 and 27 announced the decision at a press conference on Wednesday.
Speaking to media persons KMC’s Deputy Mayor Hari Prabha Khadgi urged citizens to co-operate and make this drive a success.
“We have important heritage sites in the core area which has both cultural and archaeological values. These historical monuments give a unique identity and define our country in the world. It’s our duty to preserve it,” Khadgi said.
The ban on four-wheel vehicles at 12 different points in the city starts at 7am and ends at 7pm.
The areas include Bhotahiti to Ason Chowk from both sides. Other areas include Indrachowk to Bhedasing, Jyatha to Teuda, from Thahiti to Ason and Kamalachhi. Vehicles will not be allowed to ply from Ason to Mahabouddha, Indrachowk to Wotu.
The ban exempts emergency services vehicles like ambulance, water tankers and fire brigade.
The authorities have identified parking areas in Naradevi, Makhan Chowk, Bhotahiti, and Khulla Manch.
Speaking to the Post, Metropolitan Traffic Police Circle Jana Sewa in-charge Bidur Kumar Thapa said those violating the rules will face traffic fines from Rs 500 to 1,000 under the Motor Vehicle and Transport Management Act.
A team lead by MTPD Chief Sarbendra Khanal, staff of the KMC and other stakeholders had surveyed the areas thrice before announcing this decision.