KATHMANDU: A high-level meeting held today between Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Ishwor Pokharel, Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, Tourism Minister Yogesh Bhattarai, and Labor, Employment and Social Security Minister Rameshwor Raya Yadav has decided to increase the number of both regular and charter international flights.
“A large number of Nepalese workers abroad are still waiting to return home. Considering this situation we have decided to increase the number of flights and the schedule will soon be published,” said Tourism Minister Bhattarai. Currently, five to six flights are being conducted everyday.
As per him, airlines that are operating flights from countries which have PCR testing services can seek permission for additional flights. Similarly, any company willing to send back Nepalese workers on their own expenses can get permission from the Nepal government with high priority.
“To repatriate workers under the Employees Welfare Fund, the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security will coordinate with the concerned authorities of the respective countries,” Bhattarai said, adding, “For countries where the government has not opened regular flights, the flights will be scheduled on the basis of passenger demand.” He, however, mentioned that the PCR negative report will be mandatory for all.
Minister Bhattarai further informed that the government is planning to open international flights for foreigners as well. So far the government has only allowed Nepalese migrant workers and diplomats to travel even though regular international flights have resumed.