KATHMANDU, Aug 5: Stakeholders are discussing the possibility of entrusting Vehicle Fitness Test to the private sector.

In an effort to streamline Vehicle Fitness Test procedures across Nepal, there have been significant advancements in the discussion to involve private companies in conducting inspections, while government vehicle inspection centers will oversee the process.

Mani Ram Bhusal, head of the Vehicle Fitness Test Center, highlighted the challenges faced by the government in conducting inspections nationwide. Considering the vast geographical reach and the increasing number of vehicles, involving private companies in the inspection process has been proposed as a feasible solution. Bhusal emphasized that a blueprint outlining the partnership between private companies and the government could be prepared within this fiscal year.

The proposed procedure aims to establish a clear framework for regulating and ensuring the quality of privately conducted tests. Factors such as service user charges, revenue collection, and the government's share in the revenue will also be defined under this procedure.

Currently, vehicle inspections are conducted using a limited number of devices. However, efforts are being made to introduce new measures for inspection using the dynamometer in the big lane. So far, around 10 buses have been successfully checked using this equipment. The procedure is expected to be finalized in the coming months, ensuring that old vehicles undergo inspection before being allowed to operate.

Bhusal pointed out that private companies can expedite the process by procuring the necessary equipment promptly, for profit motives as government-led procurement can be time-consuming. With the recent shift of the transport office to the provinces, vehicle fitness test centers now fall under the purview of the Department of Transport Management.

 
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