The Kathmandu Valley is experiencing growth in terms of facilities and economic activities, which has subsequently led to a growth in vehicles and congested areas. In such a scenario, it is essential to improve traffic management and ensure the smooth flow of vehicles. This will only be possible through strict traffic rules, regulations, and the facilitation of basic road infrastructure.

As it stands

The main problem now is that the roads are overburdened and cannot accommodate the rising number of vehicles. The modes of public transport now are excessive in number; not only do they create traffic, they also present a shabby picture of the urban transport management system. In addition, the roads in and around Kathmandu are not wide enough to accommodate the ever increasing number of cars and motor bikes. So now, the question is whether or not a cap should be set on the number of vehicles that are allowed to ply the streets of the Capital. And perhaps some sort of controlling mechanism should be adopted in the |operation and import of vehicles in the days to come.

Another issue concerns the haphazard parking on the streets of Kathmandu. If the established rules against haphazard parking were followed, vehicles could move safely, ensuring a smoother flow of traffic. No vehicle should enjoy the liberty of unauthorised parking. Public transport vehicles too should not be allowed to stop for more than one minute, even at authorised bus stops and taxi stands. Of course, the police and the municipality do occasionally tow away motor bikes and cars who are guilty of  unauthorised parking. The state must also make it mandatory for popular public areas such as shopping malls, commercial complexes, health centres, recreational facilities and historical monuments to have sufficient parking facilities.

Perhaps by hiking parking rates and imposing entry fees into busy locations during peak hours, the number of vehicles on the road can also be reduced. Allowing the use of vehicles on alternate days based on their license plate numbers could also help with congestion issues.

Electric signs and signals for traffic movement at intersections should be installed. Pedestrian days when vehicular movement is banned during certain times can be observed in areas like New Road and Durbar Marg—particularly during the weekend. Some pedestrian heavy streets like Ason and Indrachowk should be kept free vehicles throughout the day, except during certain late hours for loading/unloading.

Certain improvements have been made as of late. The system of no horn has been a successful measure, and the public transport system in Kathmandu has been upgraded from what it was 20 years ago as a result of the impact it was having on the environment. The number of road accidents seems to have been decreased remarkably, and due credit should be given to the strict restrictions on driving under the influence. But because roads still do not have sufficient markings, signs, indicators, reflectors, lay-bys, overhead bridges etc., civilians are still extremely vulnerable to accidents.

But any improvements to the traffic system would not do much to alleviate concerns until regular maintenance is carried out on existing structures, particularly in regards to the pot holes, side walk, and road signs. No vendors/hawkers or construction materials should be allowed to obstruct the side walk and road movement. In some of our highways, such as the ring road and the Arniko Highway leading to Bhaktapur, some lanes must potentially be explored as dedicated heavy vehicle lanes. The restriction on the plying of heavy trucks and tippers inside the ring road area during peak hours is an important breakthrough.

Way forward

Everything cannot be changed drastically in a short span of time and system improvement is a continuing process. However, a coordinated effort with necessary linkages to all modes will make improvements efficient. Of all the factors, the regulatory component would be an important and crucial stepping stone for effective service. So, the implementation of traffic procedures, rules and regulation are to be applied strictly and effectively to avoid confusion. There must be unified approaches to control and enforce the regulations for the services provided. There must be a provision for education and training, retributive penalties and even rigorous punishment to the extent of impounding driver’s licenses for a certain period for repeat defaulters. A joint effort by concerned stakeholders for honouring and fulfilling obligations will make system improvement all the more likely.

Shrestha is a former Executive Director of the Intermodal Transport Development Board, and current CEO of TransNepal Freight Services