KATHMANDU: The government has launched a campaign to relieve public transport sector of child labour.

In the first phase under the child labour-free public transportation drive, various awareness programmes are being launched through various media outlets, said coordinator of the Central Child Welfare Board Namuna Bhusal.

"Under the campaign, discussions are underway with transport entrepreneurs, and efforts on to paste stickers and pamphlets reading awareness against child labour," she said.

According to a study by the committee, around 500 children are engaging in public transport sector in the Kathmandu valley.

Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act-2056 BS defines those below the age of 16 years as children. The Act and Motor Vehicles and Transport Management Act, 2049 BS has banned the use of a child labour in public transport sector.

A person will face a fine of Rs 50,000 or get one year in prison or both in case of using child labour in transport sector.

General Secretary of the Federation of Nepali Transport Entrepreneurs Saroj Sitaula commented on the drive, saying the state should bring an alternative way for the children engaging in public transport sector for sustenance.

In case of a child found stranded and engaging in transport sector, the Board has also urged people to inform by dialing a toll free number 104 of the Children Search Coordination Centre, and a toll free number 1098 of the Child Helpline Nepal.