02 January 2008
Lhasa bus leaves without passengers
(Nepalnews.com) The direct Kathmandu-Lhasa bus service operated by Sajha Yatayat (SY) has suffered further problems after the Chinese embassy refused to issue visas to bus travellers. Many Nepali and foreign tourists reportedly bought tickets to Lhasa from the state-owned company expecting it resume operations from 01 January 2008. The Chinese government has given no reason for its refusal to issue visas. SY and Himalayan Transportation (representing Chinese interests) agreed in November 2007 to resurrect the service after its suspension in 2006. SY still sent a bus with just a driver and his assistant on board "to respect the agreement".