What Does the Proposed Digital Mobility Service Operation Guideline, 2082 Offer to Ride-Sharing Riders?
As digital ride-sharing platforms continue to transform urban transport in Nepal, the regulatory landscape is shifting to bring formal legal structure to the ride-sharing world. The proposed Digital Mobility Service Operation Guideline, 2082 provisions for clear glimpse of compliance frameworks, distinct identifiers and defined rider qualifications.
if you are a rider navigating app-based mobility services, here is a detailed breakdown of what the draft guideline offers for you.
1. Official Definition of a “Rider”
Under Section 2(g) of the guideline, a "Rider" is officially defined as any driver associated with a digital mobility service provider that has been legally approved by the Transport Management Department. This brings formal legal recognition to riders operating within authorized digital networks.
2. Mandatory QR-Code Infused Stickers & Vehicle Identification
To ensure safety, transparency and accountability on the roads Section 5 provisions that vehicles utilized for digital mobility services feature distinct identification determined through approved designs, drawings, and specifications. These vehicles must display a specific QR-code infused sticker approved by the Transport Management Department.
This annual QR code (valid for one year) acts as a digital bridge and must contain:
- The name of the service provider.
- Operating license number.
- Vehicle registration number and registration date.
- Engine or motor number.
- Chasis number.
- Rider’s full name.
- Rider’s photo and driving license number.
- License issuance date and validity term.
3. Service Connectivity Fees
Under Section 5(6), vehicles used partially for digital mobility services are subject to an annual service connectivity fee deposited into the Federal Consolidated Fund (NPR 1,000 for two-wheelers and NPR 5,000 for four-wheelers). However, the guideline explicitly states that no such fee shall be applicable to digital mobility services provided through traditional ride-sharing models.
4. Eligibility and Rider Qualifications
To professionalize the sector and safeguard passengers, Section 7 outlines strict minimum qualifications that every driver associating with a digital mobility service must possess:
- Age Requirement: Must have completed 18 years of age.
- Driving Experience: Must have held a valid driving license for at least 1 year.
- Conduct & Sobriety: Must be free from any addiction related to smoking, consumption of alcoholic substances, and drugs.
- Health Standards: Must be physically and mentally healthy for operating a vehicle.
- Clean Record: Must not be involved in any criminal activities.
5. Fare Limits & Platform Commission Caps
To protect both riders and passengers from market explloitation, the guideline proposes structual financial limits:
Base Fares: Establishes minimum baseline rates as NPR 25 per kilometer for two-wheelers and NPR 55 per kilometer for four-wheelers (with provisions for higher rates during nighttime, adverse weather, or peak hours).
Platform Commission Cap: Digital mobility platforms are proposed to be restricted to a maximium 10% commission fee per ride, ensuring that 90% or more of the ride earning go directly to the rider.
6. Safety Equipment & Real-Time Tracking Mandates
Riders must ensure their vehicles are equipped with specific safety infrastructure:
For Two-Wheelers: Mandatory passenger grab supports, approved helmets for both rider and passenger, retroreflective safety jackets for night operations, mobile navigation holders, and a real-time GPS tracking system linked with an emergency SOS button.
For Four-Wheelers: Tamper-proof encrypted dashcams/CCTVs, real-time GPS tracking, an SOS emergency button, a fire extinguisher, a first-aid kit, and functional seatbelts.
6. Social Security, Insurance, and Accident Funds
Recognizing the physical and financial risks of transport work, the guideline incorporates strong welfare provisions:
- Social Security Fund (SSF) & Insurance: Platforms are mandated to enroll drivers and riders in the Social Security Fund and ensure proper life and accident insurance coverage.
- Accident Relief Fund: A dedicated accident fund is proposed via fractional contributions from fares and platform revenue to provide immediate compensation or relief in case of severe accidents or disability.
7. Special Passenger Provisions & Safety Discretion
- Choice of Driver: Platforms are expected to incorporate features that allow specific user groups (such as female passengers) the option to choose female drivers or riders for enhanced safety.
- Distance & Passenger Constraints: Rules set limits on trip radiuses and passenger types (e.g., restrictions on carrying unaccompanied young children or individuals requiring specialized medical assistance on two-wheelers).
7. Zero-Tolerance Policy & Penalties
- Driver Conduct: Violations like reckless driving, operating outside registered digital platforms, or substance abuse attract strict warnings, financial penalties, or direct legal action.
- Mutual Respect: The framework emphasizes a balanced ecosystem where drivers are equally protected from passenger harassment or misconduct.
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