Kathmandu, July 1 -- Taxi drivers in Kathmandu Valley have launched a protest to exert pressure on the government to allow them to operate their business.

On Wednesday, they staged a sit-in outside the Department of Transport Management Office in Minbhawan, Kathmandu.

They have warned of intensifying their protest if their demand is not addressed.

"Taxi drivers and their families have been severely hit by the lockdown. Many of them are going through difficult times as the government has not allowed taxis to operate," said Surya Tamang, chairperson at Taxi Majdur Sangh, an organisation of taxi drivers..

Many taxi drivers have outstanding vehicle loans and families to look after, but they have not earned anything for over three months....