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From reels to viral campaigns, GenZ navigates the digital sphere with purpose. Their online presence reflects how technology is redefining youth engagement. A study published in the International Journal of Novel Research titled ‘Role of Social Media in Inculcating Life Skills Amongst GenZ’ shows that GenZ recognizes and accepts the effect of social media in developing essential life skills.

The study also finds that social media has become an integral part of GenZ’s life, shaping personal lives and interpersonal relationships. Reflecting this influence on daily life, 19-year-old Biswas Giri (name changed) shares how these platforms have expanded his thoughts on different topics. He also highlights his preference for the short form of video over long-form, adding, “Visually rich content captures my attention without being overwhelmed by the long texts”.

Giri also acknowledges social media influence on purchasing decisions from clothes to books, stressing the power of online communities and the role of content creators in shaping opinions. 

According to a 2025 study published in the European Journal of Teaching and Education, YouTube provides a platform for many to learn a diverse range of content, from motivational talks to self-help tutorials. The study notes that users can connect in a techno-driven world by asking queries and engaging in discussions.  

Underscoring its necessity, 18-year-old Sabina Karki from Kathmandu says YouTube has become a fundamental tool for her studies. A 12th grader, Karki, explains, “YouTube is my most used platform to gain knowledge, as  many channels teach online, which makes it easier for me to grasp the idea quickly.”

Beyond education, social media also enables global communication, making it easy to access information worldwide. Recalling the power of digital connectivity, 27-year-old Krish Acharya mentions the #MeToo movement, which sparked momentum online. “This sort of campaign on social media aims to bring systematic change and drive structural reform,” he asserts.

Social media’s role in business is equally significant. According to the National Business Association, promoting business on the internet boosts brand awareness and expands reach among a wide range of audiences. 26-year-old Sangeeta Thapa, who runs an accessories business in Kathmandu, shares that she promotes business using social media sites. Thapa adds, “I try to create appealing content that will attract customers.” For Thapa, social media is essential for shaping public opinions, and without using it, she says, reaching a broader audience would be nearly impossible. 

Twenty-five-year-old Bibek Adhikari utilizes a digital platform to stay informed about current affairs. “Exploring the content across the internet helps me refine my idea,” he says, while warning about misinformation. “Many youths are trying to get information from the internet, but it is significant to verify the source, as many are misled by false content”. 

As an example, Adhikari shares the knowledge gap among internet users in his village, Sindhupalchowk. “Many youth cannot identify credible media content, which makes it difficult for them to stay aware of the various messages they encounter,” he adds.

Recognizing Nepal’s rapidly changing digital landscape, it becomes vital to ensure that everyone develops awareness and literacy to navigate it responsibly. 

According to DataReportal’s findings, there were 14.3m active social media user identities in Nepal in Jan 2025. Within this number, GenZ also stands at the front of the digital wave, shaping online interactions and trends. 

“When the youth started to speak against the stagnant system and corruption in Nepal back in September, social media played a revolutionary role,” says Smriti Dhakal. She emphasizes the collective interest of all Nepalese to fight against the system. She claims that digital platforms, including TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, contributed significantly to shaping the voice of youth. 

While digital sites provide vast access to information, social media algorithms can also affect understanding by controlling what users see online. “Digital content gives me a sense of escapism, letting me explore different perspectives,” says Shikshya Gurung. 

She adds that online content also shapes her way of living and gives her ideas about the eating culture. Gurung adds, “With content creators giving ideas about cafes and food, it makes it easier to discover new places to spend time”. 

A report published by the Pew Research Center, ‘The Future of Well-Being in a Tech-Saturated World,’ quotes Tiziana Dearing, a professor at the Boston College School of Social Work, stating that digital technology can negatively affect well-being if social empathy and inherent bias are ignored. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of what content GenZ consumes.

GenZ engagement with social media shows diverse ways in which individuals navigate the digital landscape. While some use it for staying updated on current affairs, others use it for learning, self-expression, and entertainment, reflecting the multifaceted nature of this generation’s online presence.

“For someone who believed that change in Nepal was impossible, this moment feels like a victory,” says 22-year-old Anish Maharjan, reflecting on the recent GenZ-led protests. 

Despite all the destruction and devastation, he is optimistic about the future. There was a time when Maharjan had lost all hope for the country. That all changed when the youth-led protests on Sept 8–9 brought the old political parties to their knees. 

The movement gained momentum with the appointment of Sushila Karki as the 42nd Prime Minister, sparking fresh hope for progress. “We are hoping for a country where merit is prioritized over nepotism, where living feels like a blessing, not a forced choice”, adds 20-year-old Seejal Rai from Kathmandu. 

She explains that youth frustration stems from a corrupt system that has failed to meet even basic needs. “From corruption to unemployment to political instability, there are many problems in this country. No wonder young people are concerned about their future.” 

On Sept 8, thousands of youths took to the streets across Nepal against the corrupt system. The demonstration escalated after security personnel gunned down dozens of protesters. “We want to make Nepal better,” says 18-year-old Uttam Pariyar, who joined the protests on Sept 8 and 9.

The wave of protest even reached abroad. Amar Lama, who is currently in Australia, describes his conflicting emotions. “The news about young people dying in protests shattered my heart. Now with the new government in place, I hope things will get better.” If opportunities existed at home, Lama says many youths like him would be in their own country.  

Psychologist Gopal Dhakal at MARC Nepal says the GenZ protests were the culmination of pent-up frustration and resentment against the corrupt political leaders. “Most people today seek fairness, equal opportunities, and a society free of corruption. When these things are denied, they will protest,” he adds.
The two-day protests were marked by violence, vandalism, and arson. Government buildings, police stations and private homes of politicians across the country were set alight; there were prison riots and lootings; and security personnel were overrun by angry mobs, forcing them to run for cover.

“On the afternoon of Sept 9, all I could hear was the sound of gunfire, with black columns of smoke rising in the sky,” says 23-year-old Sima Maharjan, who lives in the Baneshwar area. For others the horror of the protests came online. Asmita Bhujel recalls being shocked at the images and videos of young protesters who were shot by police. “It was too much to bear. I couldn’t find peace,” she says.

Psychologist Dhakal says such a situation can intensify anxiety and stress. “The barrage of misinformation on social media made matters worse.” 

Meanwhile, widespread destruction of businesses and office buildings have left many people jobless. Dhakal warns this could lead to further hopelessness and mental health issues.  

While social movements can indeed be transformative and bring the masses together, Dhakal says it is crucial to keep this unity intact for realizing the much-needed reforms and changes. “The protests have lit the spark, now everybody must channel their energy toward building a better country.”  

Shiva Raj Shrestha, who was part of the GenZ protests, says every honest, hard-working Nepali wanted this change. “I believe every generation aspired to see this change, and it was made possible through the collective effort of youth.” 

Eighteen-year-old Ruma Bhujel finds solace in the pages of a book, “The papers in books illuminate my world with wisdom, courage, and knowledge,” she says. Bhujel’s sentiment reflects a growing trend among Gen Z, those born between 1997 and 2012, who are now increasingly turning to reading as a means of learning and reflection. According to a study published in The New Americanist, 31 percent of Gen Z purchases books based on recommendations from a reviewer or ads on social media. This data highlights the influence of digital media in the life of youngsters. 

Suman Basnet, who owns a bookshop in Kathmandu, says young people are likely to follow the genres that are hyped on the internet and TikTok. “Their reading habit provides insight into their way of thinking and the patterns that influence them,” he adds.

One prominent habit observed among young readers is the impact of social media. The term ‘BookTok’ explains the viral influence of TikTok on global book trends. Young people often choose to read books that have been popularized on social media platforms.“I discovered many Nepali books through my TikTok feed, and this continues to shape my view of the world,” says  Reshma Dhital. One book she recommends is Amar Neupane’s ‘Seto Dharti,’ calling it one of the finest works of Nepali literature. 

Celebrating World Book and Copyright Day in April 2025, UNESCO recognizes the power of learning through books, which serves as a bridge between generations and cultures. Puja Dangol from Kathmandu reflects on the effect of reading. “Books are more than the pages; they are the secret pages that hold the lifelong lessons,” she says. 

While many people use social media for various purposes, Gen Z increasingly turns to reels and short video platforms as an alternative to traditional reading. According to DataReportal, 16.5m internet users were identified in January 2025, making up 55.8 percent of Nepal’s total population. With this widespread access, many youths now share their interests through reels and consume information via short videos, which exposes them to a diverse range of perspectives in a place of conventional text-based reading. 

Supporting this perspective, Biswash Sherpa asserts the role of reading books in the context of summarization through short reels and videos. “Though I cannot grasp the overall content, I feel pleasure in learning this way,” he says. His perspective reflects the blend of technology and the reading culture.

Regardless, distraction remains. Upen Mahat from Biratnagar admits the power of social media over reading. “Whenever I try to concentrate, I get distracted by my phone, though I have tried to adopt the habit of reading,” he says. Mahat’s situation contrasts with other youths who seek to learn through the pages, finding calm in the written words. 

Shibham Luitel, a bookshop owner in Kathmandu, notes that many bookstores are now leveraging social media to influence their customers. “I often see popular stores attracting people through reels, catchy content catching readers’ eyes,” he says. 

Yet, Luitel notices the sharp distinction between past and present reading culture among young people. He notes a shift in reading culture; earlier, youth were drawn to Nepali classics, whereas today, many are inclined toward novels that emphasize love and personal struggles.

For someone like Astha Limbu, reading is a pure form of escapism. “Reading a book is like watching a series of movies,” she says. Recalling Khaled Hosseini’s novel, The Kite Runner, Lamsal notes how it taught her valuable lessons about redemption, guilt, and friendship. Although she watched the movie based on the same novel, she felt the movie left an emptiness, while the book provided meticulous detail for understanding. 

“For me, books are the epitome of happiness and peace in daily life”, Limbu says. 

Others adapt reading to their routines. “I read e-books while traveling, as I can’t manage daily reading,” says Uma Sah, who turns to self-help books for motivation. Twenty-year-old Kumar Basnet finds comfort in audiobooks. “The voice brings me peace. Works like Karnali Blues and Palpasa Café, offer layered insights into Nepali writing.”

Such evolving habits highlight how digitalization is reshaping reading culture. “This trend is evolving, but at least we are gaining knowledge from both traditional and digital platforms,” says Bishal Gautam, an avid reader from Pokhara. His reading blends philosophy, classics, and historical fiction.

The reading culture of Gen Z reflects change, but also resilience. From physical pages to digital reels, books continue to hold meaning. While habits shift, the search for peace, inspiration, and knowledge endures. Far from a lost generation of readers, today’s youth are forging a culture that bridges tradition and modernity.

Every time Sumana Chhetri from Kathmandu goes to watch Nepal’s football team match, she feels the burden of the nation’s expectations on the players’ shoulders. The roar of the crowd, the thrill of a goal, and the heartbreak of a miss can be nerve-wracking. 

Similarly, Anish Bhandari from Butwal recalled the agonizing moment in Nepal’s cricket history when Nepal lost to South Africa by just one run in the T20 World Cup. “It was a heartbreaking loss for the entire nation,” he added. 

Still, Bhandari admired the way the team played. “The performance was praiseworthy. They nearly defeated a nation far better equipped with infrastructure than Nepal,” he said.

But passion alone cannot sustain performance. Sushil Narsingh Rana, a World Athletics Coaches Education and Certification System (CECS) Level II Lecturer and former National Athletics coach, said there is a lack of coaches and sports facilities at the grassroots level.

“This problem is often overlooked, yet it remains one of the most pressing issues,” he said. “Even in Kathmandu, facilities fall short.” 

Rana emphasized the urgent need for trained coaches to identify and nurture young talents. 

Another significant barrier to sports development in Nepal is societal attitude. “This sports field in our society is often seen as a man’s domain,” said Neema Chaudhary, drawing on her own experience. She recalled the skepticism she faced when playing football with boys. Her own family members were unsure of her choice. 

Silika Shakya, program director at The WE United Project, echoed this concern. “Girls in rural Nepal still face so many barriers, ranging from family disapproval to lack of safe spaces,” she said. “Sports are still widely seen as a man’s game, and even talented girls are not taken seriously.”

These stereotypes, however, are being challenged. Many successful female athletes fought against society expectations, community pressure, and cultural norms just to keep playing. “Their persistence is rewriting the narrative,” Shakya said. “Yet, more effort is needed.” 

According to UNESCO, values-based sports can help address global concerns like inactivity and inequality. Aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 4, this approach promotes inclusive practices in education and sports. Shakya underscored the role of schools in reshaping attitudes by providing equal opportunities to both genders. She also urged the brands and companies to promote women’s sports, sending a powerful message of validation and visibility. 

Rana noted the importance of school in changing the structural reform by treating sports not merely as recreation.“A student can be excellent in both academics and athletics, and this story needs to be shared”, he said. 

The government’s allocation of Rs 6.8bn for sports this fiscal year is a promising step, reflecting a notable increase from the previous year. Rana, however, cautioned that most of the budget focuses on stadium construction while ignoring grassroots development. “Stadiums are necessary, but real work begins from the low-level foundation,” he said. 

Injuries and mental health are further neglected areas. Rana pointed out that a lack of focus on sports psychology and mental well-being could hamper a player’s career. “It is not just about performance but about overall well-being,” he added.  

Women in particular face unique challenges, as they are expected to focus on domestic responsibilities and behave in a certain way. Shakya warned that these cultural pressures can cause girls to drop out or never even try. “I believe visibility changes minds. When families and community leaders see girls confidently playing, learning, and leading without compromising their values, they see new possibilities,” she said. 

The media also plays a pivotal role in shaping the narrative. Sports journalist Aakriti Singh acknowledged the imbalance in coverage. “Sports like cricket and football dominate headlines, whereas emerging sports such as table tennis, athletics, and para-sports are overlooked,” she said. Singh added women’s sports receive far less airtime, fewer headlines, and limited post-match analysis compared to men’s events.

Looking ahead and comparing Nepal’s potential, Singh said Nepal can be a strong sporting nation, especially by focusing on youth, inclusivity, and regional strengths. “The government should integrate sports in schools and develop district-level competitions. It should target sports where Nepal has a comparative advantage, such as  mountain sports, martial arts, football, and volleyball,” she said.

While the National Sports Council (NSC) oversees sports development, its policies often lack long-term vision, and execution is inconsistent. Critically assessing the current state of sports development in Nepal, especially in comparison to neighboring countries, requires examining infrastructure, policy, funding, talent development, and performance on the international stage. Singh believes this gap can be closed with clear, consistent investment and governance reform.

“Just like India has been providing targeted funding, training, and exposure for young and elite athletes, Nepal should also implement a similar system for its athletes,” she said. 

According to UN Women, the interest in women's sport is rapidly growing—73 percent of people now watch women’s sports at least a few times a year, nearing the 81 percent who watch men’s matches. Shakya reaffirmed the transformative power of sports. “At WE United, we’ve seen how sports can empower girls to break free from long-standing gender roles,” she said. “We train and support female coaches, so that young girls can see women leading, teaching, and thriving in sports.” 

Rana believes that for true reform in sports, it must remain free from politics and favoritism. “We need professionalism and a national calendar to streamline events,” he said. “This field should be run by educated and experienced individuals.”

Nepal’s sports journey is one of passion and resilience. Recognizing both the passion of the people and the dedication of athletes, the government must act promptly to strengthen sports infrastructure in both urban and rural settings. 

In a world where technology and social media dominate nearly every aspect of life, it is crucial to recognize both their benefits and limitations. People of all age groups use digital platforms for various purposes, but this adoption also comes with challenges, particularly in parenting.

Rama Poudel from Kathmandu shared how digital technology has impacted parenting styles. Poudel said, “Children have access to smartphones and the internet at an early age, so we parents should learn how to monitor what they are doing.”

According to DataReportal, Nepal had 39m mobile connections in early 2025. While some of these connections only include services like SMS and voice calls, this figure indicates that mobile devices have become widespread, and it is likely that many children have access to a phone.

When asked about his daily screen time, an eighth grader said, “I sometimes use my phone for three to four hours a day.” His response underscores the growing responsibility that parents have in safeguarding their children’s well-being.

According to UNESCO, excessive use of mobile phones can negatively impact learning. Beyond academics, prolonged screen time also affects the overall holistic development of a child. 

Sunika Joshi, mental health expert, noted that while technology is advancing rapidly, public awareness of its harm remains limited. “There’s a huge gap between the users' knowledge and effective ways to mitigate the impact of technology,” she said.  ”It is essential to understand its pros and cons of technology.”

Sima Karki, a school counsellor, has observed a noticeable change in students’ behaviour. “They can’t focus on a specific topic for a long time as they have the frequent habit of watching short videos,” she said. “I think this is an alarming trend that could disrupt children’s ability to concentrate.”

Digital device use among kids also impacts their physical and mental health. Joshi said that children who spend excessive time on electronic gadgets face several challenges, such as irritability, behavioural problems, lack of concentration, memory issues, and social difficulties. “Children learn through human interaction and observation, but when confined to information from mobile devices, they miss out on vital face-to-face experiences,” she said.

According to a study published in The Lancet Global Health by researchers from the World Health Organization and academic partners, nearly one-third (31 percent) of adults worldwide, approximately 1.8bn people, did not meet the recommended levels of physical activity in 2022. The figure has increased by around 5 percentage points between 2010 and 2022.

This result shows that due to a lack of physical activity, many people are at risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and stroke. The highest rates of physical inactivity were observed in the Asia Pacific region, followed by South Asia.

Similarly, these patterns also affect children, many of whom spend more time on phones and less time being physically active. Joshi warned that a sedentary routine can lead to anxiety and depression.

“Children should be outdoors playing,” she said. “But trapped behind the screen, they are likely to experience several health and mental issues.”

Understanding this phenomenon of digital dependence and use, some parents have tried to adopt a healthier practice for their children. Kripa Rai, a parent from Kathmandu, said she tries to spend time with her eight-year-old son, helping him with his homework, and involve him in minor household activities.

“It is a way to limit his screen time and engage him in activities that help him learn practical skills,” said Rai. “This has also helped strengthen our relationship.” 

According to UNICEF, children can learn best when they feel safe and nurtured. So, a proper and supportive connection is pivotal for a child’s brain development and confidence building.

Joshi said mobile phones often serve as a conduit to escape reality for children facing family conflict. “Their favourite hobby should be discovered beyond the screen,” she advised. “Parents must be accountable for their children’s welfare and seek solutions.”

Parents should gradually introduce limits—such as setting thirty minutes of phone use and encouraging an hour of reading—to build their children’s discipline. Physical activity remains equally important. At home, children can engage in stretching or simple exercise movement activities, as the body needs to stay fit and calm.

It is the parents who have the vital role in guiding how their children spend their time, especially in an age dominated by technology. The guidance they provide can serve as a model for cultivating healthy habits. By modelling healthy habits, nurturing relationships, and encouraging activities like journaling, art, craft, painting, and creative works, parents can help children thrive in a world that is both digital and real. 

“Social media life and social life must be kept  separate, and maintaining a balanced relationship between them is most essential,” said Joshi.

Sima Poudel, a college student, relies on public transportation to reach her college. For her, it is the most exhausting part of her day.

“You rarely find a bus on time, and even if you do, it is overcrowded,” she says.

Poudel’s personal struggle with public transport represents the reality faced by most public transport commuters in Kathmandu.

According to findings of the Asian Transport Outlook (ATO), 2023, Scoping Urban Transport in Kathmandu, high access to bus stops does not necessarily translate into high transit mode share. While 56 percent of the Kathmandu population lives within walking distance of public transportation, only  28 percent actually use public or informal transit. This mismatch can be attributed to several factors, including poor service, overcrowding, safety and comfort. Limited investment in public transport has hindered the much-needed improvements, leaving the system inefficient and frustrating for passengers.

This extends beyond discomfort. For many women, public transports are a space of vulnerability.
Anjila Pokharel recalls the long-lasting effect of harassment on the bus, which affected her daily work life. While travelling from her home to Sundhara, she experienced inappropriate behaviour from a middle-aged man that triggered fear and long-term anxiety.

“That incident had a lasting impact on my mental health,” she shares. “I used  to feel terrified afterwards, and the memory of that haunted me for a long period.”

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), sexual harassment can result in severe mental health consequences, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and trauma. This all can significantly alter how survivors engage with public life. 

Although the International Association of Public Transport, a worldwide association representing all local public transport stakeholders, states that public transport offers equal opportunities to all citizens, regardless of their social standing, the reality in Nepal tells a different story. While buses and microbuses may physically connect people, they often fail to ensure a safe and equitable environment for everyone.

Sabina Rai witnessed a conductor yelling at an old passenger who was confused about the bus route. “It was upsetting to watch the conductor telling off a person double his age,”Rai recalls. When another person tried to intervene, the conductor continued his rude behavior. The incident shows that public transport operators and their staff are not concerned with the safety and comfort of passengers. 

Public transports are supposed to be accessible and affordable, but the reality is entirely different in Nepal. Even the elderly and disabled are not accorded the respect and care they deserve. Designated seats for seniors and disabled are often ignored.

Bivek Limbu, who lost one of his legs in a motorcycle accident, says a lack of disabled-friendly transport has made his traveling experience very difficult.
“I travel daily from Bhaktapur to Chabahil, but it's difficult getting into and off a bus,” he says. According to the Nepal Census 2021, 2.2 percent of the Nepali population lives with some form of disability, and for them, navigating public transport is often exclusionary. Limbu’s experience showcases daily struggles faced by people with disabilities who are forced to adopt a system that was never built for them

Another pressing but under-discussed issue is the lack of proper CCTV surveillance in public vehicles. 

This absence makes theft, assault, and misconduct go unchecked. Reema BK once left her purse on a bus. While she was able to find the bus with the help of traffic police,  her belongings were never recovered. “While it is the responsibility of passengers to take care of their items, sometimes the level of security and accountability must also be ensured,” BK says.

While Nepal struggles with poorly regulated public transport, its neighbouring country India has made notable progress in the past years. In order to reduce harassment cases, Delhi Metro has introduced CCTV surveillance, panic buttons, and safety protocols that make commuting safer. Additionally, many buses are equipped with digital payment systems and a tracking app to ensure reliability. 

While in Nepal, only a small number of buses have adopted these practices. These successful initiatives from South-Asian countries can serve as a model for Nepal to reduce problematic concerns over public transport efficiency and safety.

The public transport problem not only affects the passengers, but also its staff members. Shyam Kumar Shrestha says that his brother has been working as a nighttime driver along the Butwal–Kathmandu route. “Despite working long, grueling hours, his wages are often delayed,” he says. Exploitation of drivers, conductors and maintenance workers by transport operators ultimately affects service quality and passenger safety.
While discussing the problems of public transport, concerned authorities focus on the surface-level issues, such as overcrowded buses or traffic congestion. But improving public transport also requires inclusive planning that prioritises both individual needs and the collective welfare of people.

Twenty-eight-year-old Neema Sherpa from Kathmandu vividly recalls the incident when she became a victim of a hit-and-run case. “The bike hit me when I was crossing the road at the zebra crossing,” she explains. Although a zebra crossing is designed for pedestrian safety, her experiences raise serious questions about riders’ accountability and the enforcement of traffic rules.

The rising cases of accidents underscore the critical importance of road safety to ensure a safer transportation system.  Bibek Thapaliya, a bike rider from Kathmandu, says with the rise of traffic accidents, his parents are worried about his safety. Thapaliya’s parents are not alone. Rajani Karki reflects her experience as a parent. “I remember the day when I allowed my daughter to ride a scooter on the road. My anxiety grew when she didn’t come home on time,” she says. 

This incident raises questions not only about the state of road safety but also about the psychological stress that families endure amid rising accident cases. Despite these fears, not all riders exercise caution. One  anonymous rider from Kathmandu admits to frequently violating the traffic rules. “When stuck in a jam, many young riders, including myself, tend to violate rules in an attempt to get ahead,” he says. 

Peer behaviour and pressure often contribute to such recklessness among young riders. This tendency is supported by research from the US National Library of Medicine, which found that peer influence is a pervasive force during adolescence, one that shapes adaptive and maladaptive attitudes and behaviours. 

Pasang Tenzing Lama, another rider, believes that young people today have the mentality to impress others rather than riding responsibly. “I have seen many cases of motorcycle accidents involving young riders who were careless on the road,” he says.

Overspeeding, stunt riding, and a lack of proper safety gear are common among young riders. For many, owning a motorcycle is more than just about transportation.  “Besides avoiding the daily chaos of public transport, owning a motorcycle is also about freedom and style,” says Anish Regmi, a motorcycle rider.

But when personal satisfaction takes precedence over public safety, the consequences can be dire.

Aryan Karki (name changed), a young rider from Kathmandu, recalls his life upside down when his motorcycle collided with a bus, leaving him with multiple fractures and injuries. Karki says one moment sent him to bed for over eight months. The emotional and psychological toll of that incident still haunts Karki. “Yes, motorcycles are convenient, but a minor error can lead to years of suffering,” he says. 

Motorcycles account for the highest share of road accidents in Nepal. According to the data of Nepal Police, 25,788 vehicles were involved in accidents in the fiscal year 2019/20, and 10,869 of those vehicles were motorcycles. In the fiscal year 2020/21, out of 33,135 vehicles involved in road accidents, 17,087 were motorcycles.  In the fiscal year 2021/22, there 39,379 vehicles were involved in road accidents, and 19,974 were motorcycles. The fiscal year 2022/23 saw 23,597 accidents involving 37,393 vehicles, including 19,511 motorcycles. In the fiscal year 2023/24, 22,927 accidents were reported, with 35,404 vehicles involved, of which 19,984  were motorcycles.

So far, in the current fiscal year 2024/25, 22,860 accidents occurred, involving 34,358 vehicles, including 20,183 motorcycles, which is a high number of motorcycles being involved in accidents in these five years. In the same year, serious injuries peaked at 12,655. These data from the last five years represent the growing issue of motorcycle accidents. These disturbing cases demand urgent attention and public safety interventions. The data depicts that motorcycle involvement has remained consistently high, and they are contributing to a larger share of deaths and serious injuries.

Uttam Shrestha, a taxi driver, elaborates on the risky behavior he observes among young riders. “Young bikes are often overconfident and they are always in a hurry to get ahead ,” he says. “I believe basic traffic education must be a mandatory part of driving training.”

Sahadev Sinjali, another taxi driver, says another issue affecting road safety is the use of mobile phones and earphones while riding. “When your concentration is elsewhere while riding a vehicle, you risk yourself and others,” he says.

Shyam Kumar Subedi, who has over 15 years of motorcycle riding experience, says youths today need to understand the real impact of careless riding.

A Kathmandu-based emergency doctor warns about both physical and psychological damage from road accidents. “Some injuries can be life-threatening. Others can cause lasting mental trauma,” he says. 

He also points out how social media is promoting reckless riding. “Young people today watch dangerous motorcycle stunts and they are eager to imitate them, without proper safety gear, unaware of the risks,” he says.

Traffic police acknowledge the rising case of motorcycle accidents and say they are taking steps. They say while road safety awareness programs are being run, speed-monitoring systems have been installed, and routing traffic checks are being performed, these initiatives alone will not ensure road safety as long as the person behind the vehicle is not cautious. 

Twenty three-year-old Samana Karki (name changed) woke up one early morning after receiving a barrage of disturbing messages. Someone had misused her photo to create a fake Facebook account to disseminate inappropriate contents. Karki was shocked. “I felt helpless,” she recalls.

Karki’s story reflects a broader, alarming trend of online harassment and misuse of digital platforms, raising questions about user safety and accountability in Nepal’s digital landscape.

According to DataReportal, 16.5m internet users were identified in Jan 2025, making up 55.8 percent of Nepal’s total population. As new media technologies, like social media, enable users to interact in two-way communication, the misuse of it has also grown. Most of these crimes appear on social media platforms like Facebook, Messenger, TikTok, WhatsApp, and Instagram.

Ramesh Thapa, central spokesperson of Nepal Police, says that social media as a tool for information sharing is being misused as a medium for cybercrime in recent days. As per Nepal Police, Annual Factsheet on Cyber Crime, complaints related to cybercrime increased by 119 percent in the fiscal year 2023/24 compared to 2022/23. The highest number of cybercrime cases was registered at the Cyber Bureau, while Sudurpashchim Province recorded the lowest. Among those affected, 44.32 percent were women.

Individuals facing harassment on social media in Nepal are protected under various legal provisions. Section 47 of the Electronic Transaction Act, 2063, criminalizes the act of teasing, harassing, or insulting an individual through an electronic medium. In sections 47 (1) and (2), there is a penalty for the culprit, a charging fine of Rs 100,000 and imprisonment of five years in case if anyone teases, rags, humiliates, or disrespects an individual through undignified activities, using online.

Additionally, Section 300 of the National Criminal Code, 2017 penalizes anyone with malicious intent to instill fear, distress, or uses written communication or digital media to threaten, annoy, tease, or defame another person. The offenders can face the punishment of imprisonment for up to one year, a fine up to Rs 10,000 or both.

Despite these legal provisions, Advocate Sulochana Dhital says: “The case of fraudulent activities, revelation of privacy, blackmailing have not been addressed independently. They don’t get much legal attention, and many women, girls, and even minors become victims due to the lack of sufficient legal provisions or remedies.”

An example that sheds light on this problem is the case of  Bina Rai (name changed), who was a victim of online fraud in Saptari. She received a WhatsApp message from someone posing as a government official offering financial assistance. Believing the message, she shared her personal details and made a payment. After reaching out several times after payment, and when follow-up communication stopped, Rai realized she had been scammed. Rai realized women's vulnerability in digital spaces where digital literacy and awareness are still lacking. She fears that her personal information might be used for inappropriate purposes.

Advocate Surendra Tiwari, of Imperial Law Associates, says: “To tackle the growing issue of digital crimes such as hacking and online fraud in Nepal, several improvements are necessary in the country’s cyber laws and enforcement mechanisms. The Electronic Transaction Act regulates the matters relating to offenses through electronic media in Nepal, but the cases of online harassment are still increasing, which indicates that the existing legal provisions are insufficient, so making their amendment is an absolute necessity.”

He adds: “There is still a significant lack of professionals necessary to investigate cybercrime cases and a lack of public awareness regarding online fraud. Many people still use weak passwords and fall for scams by clicking on any suspicious links, making it easier for hackers and scammers to gain access to the data of the people.”

Building on this concern, the spokesperson of Nepal police, Thapa, says: “The public must recognize the importance of the information shared by the police, as it plays a key role in preventing incidents like online fraud, identity theft, and cyberbullying.” He states that a collaborative awareness campaign under the Community Police Partnership is launched at the school and college level to promote cybersecurity awareness on a large scale. 

However, the rise of social media use, particularly among youth, has led to increasing cases of cyber abuse. One such example is Goma Poudel (name changed), who recalls the trauma of being blackmailed with private videos. “The widespread use of my videos is destroying me mentally,” she shares.  For her, the impact goes beyond privacy and is about psychological abuse, a digital violence that takes an immense mental toll. Poudel also reveals how she was blamed by society instead of being supported.

Addressing this societal perspective, Advocate Dhital says that women are objectified in various contexts, often blamed for being open to men, and face character assassination when they report online harassment. “This social stigma is coupled with fear in the police stations and even in the courts, where many staff are men, where women feel humiliated for repeating the same versions of harassment,” he says. 

Puja Neupane recalls how she fell victim to a job scam. A fraudster promised her a job in exchange for a Rs 50,000 advance payment. She later reported the issue, only to realize it had been a scam all along. “Had I known the consequences, I would never have handed the money in advance,” she says. Her case highlights the lack of awareness about cybercrime and the risk that accompanies Nepal’s digital transition.

In response to these rising cases, Advocate Tiwari says, the amendments to the existing laws of Nepal are required, along with the introduction of a new regulatory framework, as legal provisions that address online harassment remain largely ineffective. Both the enactment of comprehensive laws and their proper implementation are essential to ensure stronger legal protection for victims.

Tiwari says: “If the proposed Social Media Bill, which is currently under discussion in the Parliament, is enacted, then it will introduce a comprehensive regulatory framework targeting the misuse of social media platforms.”

Further, he shares that, the bill seeks to criminalize online behaviours that are currently widespread, including the use of social media as a tool for cyberbullying and harassment, creating fake ids, fraudulent transactions, hacking personal accounts or stealing sensitive information, and posting or sharing graphic or violent content, such as brutal photos or videos.  Nonetheless, Tiwari also acknowledges concerns. “If passed, this would bring many harmful online behaviours, including the use of social media to spread content related to gender violence, sexual harassment, prostitution, issues that  are prohibited under current laws,” he says.  “It may seek to curtail the freedom of expression at large and impact raw creativity and positive criticism.” He advocates a balanced approach to protect digital rights and safety.

With the continued expansion of digital media, there is a high probability of increased cybercrime in the future. In today’s world, where technology shapes nearly every aspect, understanding the complex effects of the digital landscape is essential. While these platforms can serve as an important tool for sharing information, they also pose threats when used irresponsibly. It is the urgent role of government bodies to take an active role in promoting digital safety and improving knowledge about cyber threats in a wider range, as it is urgent to address these issues.

Advocate Dhital underscores the need for a separate law that would focus only on cybercrime. “The existing law is the intermingling of many issues, resulting in being unable to incorporate many more issues related to cyber or online crime,” she says.

Dhital recommends a stronger penalty for repeated offences, along with free counselling and legal aid to victims to support their mental state. “Introducing an online harassment course in the school curriculum is also essential, as people’s daily lives are highly influenced by what they consume online. Understanding the dos and don’t of the internet in this digital age is critical,” she says.