Kathmandu, April 13, 2025 – The Third International Transport Conference is currently underway in Kathmandu, marking a significant milestone for the country’s transport and infrastructure sectors. The event, which began on April 11, is being held at Hotel Yak and Yeti and will continue until April 13.
Jointly organized by the Society of Transport Engineers Nepal (SOTEN), the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, and the Ministry of Urban Development, the conference has brought together over 300 representatives from 12 countries. With 16 sessions scheduled over three days, this year’s conference aims to address pressing challenges in Nepal's transport sector while exploring sustainable and reliable solutions.
Speaking at the event, SOTEN President Hara Ram Shrestha emphasized the importance of the conference in addressing long-standing issues in Nepal’s transportation systems. "This platform will not only identify existing problems but also chart out practical and innovative solutions for sustainable development," said Shrestha.
The conference features discussions led by 45 expert speakers, including 22 international delegates, who are sharing insights on global best practices and how they can be adapted to Nepal's unique context. Topics include urban transport planning, infrastructure resilience, and advancements in transport engineering.
SOTEN General Secretary Hemant Tiwari highlighted the organization’s commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing. "By engaging with experts and stakeholders, we aim to incorporate international best practices to improve Nepal's transport systems, ensuring they are safe, sustainable, and efficient," said Tiwari.
The Society of Transport Engineers Nepal has been at the forefront of such initiatives, hosting international conferences biennially and national conferences annually. SOTEN Secretary Shravan Kumar Thapa underscored the critical need for coordination among stakeholders, stating, "A unified approach among government agencies, private sectors, and civil society is essential to achieve a robust and reliable transport sector in Nepal."
The conference has been lauded as a significant step forward in addressing Nepal’s transport challenges, and the insights generated here are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping future policies and strategies.
As the conference concludes today, stakeholders remain optimistic about the actionable outcomes and strengthened international collaborations to support the country’s vision for a modernized and sustainable transport system.
