LDT finally starts operating ADB-funded electric buses

LUMBINI: The Lumbini Development Trust (LDT) has finally started operating two out of five electric buses procured with the funding of the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

ADB provided funding to procure these buses to serve domestic and international tourists visiting the Greater Lumbini area.

The LDT started the operation of these two buses on a trial basis on Thursday.

In 2022, the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation handed over five electric buses and 14 vans to the LDT. However, the LDT had failed to bring these buses into operation due to legal complexities in converting white license plates to green for tourist services.

Tourists using these buses are not required to pay any fare. They, however, can drop money in the donation box to assist in the smooth operation of this transport service.

Member of the House of Representatives from Rupandehi-5, Basudev Ghimire, LDT Vice Chairperson Dr. Lharkyal Lama, and Rupandehi Chief District Officer Basudev Ghimire flagged off the buses.

The buses will operate on two routes: Butwal to Lumbini via Bhairahawa, and Belahiya to Lumbini via Gautam Buddha International Airport.

The buses were procured by the ADB-funded South Asia Tourism Infrastructure Development Project. The project has invested Rs 280 million to procure buses and install solar plants and charging stations.