Jun 03, Kathmandu - For the second day, people across Nepal faced significant difficulties travelling as public transportation remained largely shut down due to protests by transport business owners. Meanwhile, ride-sharing services like Pathao and InDrive have experienced a surge in demand.

With buses and microbuses off the roads, many of the usual crowded bus stops appeared nearly empty of public vehicles. In their place, motorbikes and cars operated by ride-sharing drivers were busy picking up stranded passengers.

A few services, however, continued to operate. Buses run by Sajha Yatayat, some private taxis, and vehicles from Mayur Yatayat were still seen on the roads.

Public security forces, including Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force, also operated two free bus routes to help ease the burden on commuters.

The transport strike was initiated in response to new ride-sharing regulations introduced by the Gandaki Provincial Government, which many public transport operators oppose. Although the federal government and transport associations reached an agreement late Monday night to request the Gandaki government to suspend the new rules temporarily, the strike has persisted.

Transport operators are demanding that the regulation be fully withdrawn, not just paused. Until their demands are met, they say they will keep their vehicles off the roads.