The government has launched a campaign to relieve public transport sector of child labour.

In the first phase under the child labour-free public transportation drive, various awareness programmes are being launched through various media outlets, said coordinator of the Central Child Welfare Board Namuna Bhusal.

“Under the campaign, discussions are under way with transport entrepreneurs

and efforts on to paste stickers and pamphlets with messages against child labour,” she said.

According to a study by the committee, around 500 children are engaged in public transport sector in Kathmandu Valley.

Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act-2056 defines those below the age of 16 years as children. The Act and Motor Vehicles and Transport Management Act-2049 prohibits the use of child labour in the public transport sector.

Anyone found using child labour in the transport sector will face a fine of Rs50,000 or one-year in prison or both.

Commenting on the drive, General Secretary of the Federation of Nepali Transport Entrepreneurs Saroj Sitaula said the state should bring an alternative way for the children engaged in the public transport sector for sustenance.