Transport workers protest in Kanchanpur, vehicle operations halted over driver's detention

Dhangadhi: Transport workers in Kanchanpur have launched a protest, suspending vehicle operations following the jailing of a driver involved in a traffic accident.

The protest began on Thursday, after the driver—arrested in connection with the incident—was sent to jail for trial. The agitation is being led by three workers’ unions and organizations in the district.

As part of the protest, Mahendra Highway, including Mahendranagar Bus Park, has been closed at Champapur, Bhasi Bridge, and the Bus Park. Deputy Superintendent of Police Umesh Raj Joshi of the District Police Office, Kanchanpur, confirmed the highway blockade and said discussions are underway with transport entrepreneurs to reopen the road.

The dispute stems from an accident on Magh 19, when a bus (Sudurpaschim Province 02001 Ja 447) en route from Mahendranagar to Dhangadhi hit a motorcycle (Province 302012 Pa 9402) at Krishnapur Municipality-2, Bank. Motorcyclist Sanat Regmi and passenger Kamal Kant Joshi sustained minor injuries and were treated at Nisarga Hospital, Dhangadhi, before returning home. However, Joshi later filed a mutilation case at the Area Police Office, Jhalari.

Labor organizations have accused the police of detaining the driver, Awasthi, without proper investigation and of holding him unnecessarily for two months. They also claim he has been subjected to mental torture and criticized the court proceedings against him.

In a joint statement, the unions have demanded Awasthi’s immediate release, warning of phased protests if their demands remain unaddressed. The statement was signed by the Nepal Transport Independent Workers' Organization, Nepal Transport Workers' Association, and the All Nepal Trade Union Federation Coordination Committee, Kanchanpur.