Government Misses Blue Bus Deadline As Key Agreement Remains Unsigned
Nepal's proposed Blue Bus service did not begin on its scheduled launch date after the government failed to complete its operational agreement with Sajha Yatayat. Officials say discussions are close to completion, but the women-focused transport service cannot move forward until the remaining administrative process is finalized.

The government's plan to introduce the first phase of its Blue Bus service for women did not materialize on the promised date after an operating agreement with Sajha Yatayat was still pending. Although the project was included in the administration's 100-day governance agenda and scheduled to begin from the first day of the new fiscal year, officials say procedural formalities have delayed the rollout.
Agreement Still Waiting To Be Finalized
Officials from the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport said negotiations with Sajha Yatayat are in their final stage. Since the partnership has not yet been formally signed, work such as route approvals and operational arrangements cannot be completed, preventing the buses from entering service.
Existing Sajha Fleet Will Be Used
Rather than purchasing new vehicles, the government plans to deploy eight existing Sajha Yatayat electric buses during the initial phase. The buses will continue operating in Sajha's familiar green colour despite the project's "Blue Bus" branding, which is intended to represent the initiative rather than the vehicle's appearance.
Project Aims To Expand Nationwide
The Blue Bus initiative is designed to provide free and safer public transport for women, with an eventual expansion to all seven provinces. The government's broader target is to place 25 buses into operation within its first 100 days, though the missed launch means that timeline has already slipped.
No New Launch Date Announced
Authorities insist the project remains active and have described the remaining work as largely administrative. However, commuters are still waiting for an updated launch schedule, as officials have not confirmed when the required agreement will be signed or when services will actually begin.
Published 7 hours ago in Society