The wave of ride sharing apps along with online delivery systems has exploded in Nepal in recent years. Companies such as Pathao, InDriver, Tootle, Daraz, Sasto Deal, Foodmandu, Bhoj Deals, Foodgunj and other numerous small and large online based businesses have their business models revolving around online presence and communication. These companies do not directly deliver to or come in contact with their customers, rather their delivery persons or riders meet the end customers. To get to them, the rider and delivery person has to keep in contact with them through mobile devices that are easily accessible while on the two-wheeler. Thus, comes the concept of placing external stands on the two-wheelers to place their mobile phones to view google maps, track orders and locate the customers addresses.
According to recent news, the Valley Traffic Police Office has put a ban on the usage of such mobile stands on the two-wheelers. They have sent out letters to many delivery companies, especially the ride sharing apps as they are the heaviest users of those mobile stands. The sole reason for the Valley Traffic Police to take such a drastic step was due to the rising number of two-wheeler accidents on the highway due to the usage of mobile phones while on-the-road. They have also highlighted the existing law of the Government of Nepal saying that any external addition to a vehicle is considered modifications which are considered illegal.
Resting their simple case they have strictly made provisions to fine from Rs.500 to Rs.2000 to any individual who will violate the rules made by the Valley Traffic Police Office.
In contrast, does the application of this rule sound viable to you as a general public, a general user of the ride sharing apps and delivery companies?
Mobile Devices have made every individual's life easy and especially for the riders and delivery persons it is a mode of communication, identification and direction. Would it be easy for them to work without a handy mobile device in front of them?
Do you think this step taken by Valley Traffic Police is viable in the long run?
We would really appreciate your opinions and views on this issue. Feel free to put it down on the comment section below.