KATHMANDU: Electric buses have been brought into operation in Kathmandu Valley from today with the joint initiative of Lumbini Development Trust and Sajha Yatayat.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli inaugurated the electric bus service by travelling on the bus from Pulchok-based Sajha Yatayat premises to Singha Durbar.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Oli stated, 'It is necessary to emphasise the operation of electric buses during the shortage of petroleum products,' adding that thousands of four-wheelers and motorcycles are plying every day in Kathmandu Valley.

PM Oli further said that electric vehicles would be promoted in days to come by coordinating with concerned authorities. He informed that Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) would set up charging stations at 20 different places.

He said that government was committed to increasing the standard and quality of public vehicles, and at the same time emphasised the role of private sector in this regard. 'Participation of private sector is necessary in expansion of electric bus service.'

Likewise, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Rabindra Adhikari said that construction of Gautam Buddha International Airport -- which is part of the ADB Project -- would be completed within the next six months.