Kathmandu: The Department of Transport Management has halted the registration of new public vehicles across Nepal until further notice, citing growing challenges in traffic control and public transport management.

According to the department, the suspension applies to both fuel powered and electric public vehicles. A circular issued by department director Maniram Bhusal has already been sent to the concerned ministries in all seven provinces as well as local governments.

The department said the decision was made under Section 24 (3) of the Vehicle and Transport Management Act, 2049, which authorizes the government to suspend new registrations in the public interest.