Kathmandu: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey has announced the implementation of the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) service improvement plan aimed at enhancing the airport’s efficiency. During a meeting of the International Relations and Tourism Committee under the House of Representatives at Singha Durbar, Minister Pandey highlighted the formation of a committee led by the TIA general manager to develop a reform action plan. The ministry is set to release a report detailing the committee’s action plan and will continue efforts to improve services.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Pandey observed that while passengers reach the terminal building swiftly, there is a noticeable delay in luggage retrieval. In contrast, passengers at other international airports experience longer transit times from plane to terminal. The minister also noted that although TIA is designed to handle 4.5 million passengers annually, it has accommodated 9.5 million passengers this year. Despite being over capacity, efforts are underway to streamline and enhance airport services.
Minister Pandey expressed optimism about collaborating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to expedite the visa process at the Chinese Embassy for tourists traveling to Mansarovar. The committee also reviewed the Air Services Authority Bill, 2081. During discussions, MPs Bhanubhakta Joshi, Sher Bahadur Kunwar, and Prakash Jwala stressed the importance of reinforcing the bill to ensure safer aviation transport services. MP Roshan Karki urged for the bill’s prompt finalization due to its critical and timely nature.
Additionally, MP Prem Suwal brought attention to the need for improved management of Nepal Airlines Corporation and the establishment of a well-equipped international airport. MP Eknath Dhakal highlighted the necessity for Tribhuvan International Airport to be more accessible, safe, and user-friendly. MP Shishir Khanal urged the Tourism Minister to expedite the visa process as numerous foreign nationals await visas in hotels to travel to Mansarovar from Nepal.