KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation has issued a directive to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) ordering immediate improvements in passenger services, cleanliness, and human welfare facilities at all airports across the country, including Tribhuvan International Airport, with implementation required within 24 hours.

In a notice dated April 10, the Tourism Ministry directed CAAN to act on feedback and suggestions received from the public and travellers through various media, and to submit a compliance report with photographic evidence and logbook details to the ministry's email at admin@tourism.gov.np within 24 hours of implementation.

The ministry identified four specific areas requiring immediate attention. First, airports must operate clean, safe, and private breastfeeding and baby-changing rooms, or upgrade existing facilities to the required standard. 

Photo: MoCTCA

Second, a dedicated first-aid room must be established for sick passengers, senior citizens, and passengers with disabilities. Third, free sanitary pads must be made available in major restrooms to address the emergency needs of women travellers. Fourth, airports must implement a daily cleaning logbook system, strictly adhere to WHO and ICAO hygiene standards as well as other applicable national public health standards, and ensure regular inspection and record-keeping.

The ministry warned that failure to comply with the directive will result in action under applicable law.

Citizens and travellers who find that the required improvements have not been made are encouraged to report non-compliance under the heading "Gunaso wa Tarif" (Complaint or Compliment) to the ministry's information officer via WhatsApp at 9851312722.