Committee formed to probe electric vehicle crash in Makwanpur

The chief district officer of Makwanpur, Vasant Adhikari, announced the formation of a five‑member committee to investigate the electric vehicle (EV) collision that occurred this morning at Chisapani Gadhi in Bhimfedi Rural Municipality‑6. The crash resulted in 14 fatalities and six injuries, according to the police. The committee is tasked with identifying the cause of the accident and presenting a report within seven days. The designated official will serve as the panel coordinator. Members include traffic police inspector Ramesh Vist from the district traffic police office, inspector Umashankar Prasad, an engineer from the Provincial Infrastructure Development Office, and a law officer from the provincial ministry responsible for internal affairs and law. The diverse composition aims to cover technical, legal and enforcement perspectives. Police officials have noted that the mandatory ‘time card’ system for vehicles was insufficient to prevent the tragedy. The chief district officer highlighted the need for broader safety measures beyond the time card, suggesting that additional regulations may be required to reduce future incidents involving electric vehicles. The committee will conduct field examinations, interview witnesses and review vehicle maintenance records. Its findings are expected to inform provincial authorities on potential policy revisions. The deadline of one week reflects the urgency expressed by local officials to address public safety concerns promptly. Local authorities have urged the community to cooperate with investigators and refrain from speculation until the official report is released. The investigation will be overseen by the provincial interior ministry, ensuring that any recommendations align with broader transport safety strategies.