Nepal Introduces New Regulations for Digital Mobility Services Amidst Driver Protests
Summary
Nepal has drafted new rules to regulate ride-sharing and other digital mobility services, capping fares and commissions while adding safety measures for passengers and drivers. The move comes as drivers protest outside the InDrive office in Kupandole over labor exploitation and unsafe working conditions.
Key Points
- The government has published the draft 'Digital Mobility Service Operation Standards, 2082' to regulate ride-sharing, ride-hailing and ride-pooling services.
- The draft caps fares and commissions, requires company registration and licensing, and adds safety features such as SOS buttons, female-driver options and accident compensation.
- Ride-sharing drivers have been protesting in front of the InDrive office in Kupandole over labor exploitation, unsafe conditions and high company commissions.
- The Department of Transport Management says existing ride-sharing companies are not formally registered and there is currently no clear legal basis to regulate them.
