Kathmandu, Apr. 19: The usually crowded and chaotic lanes of Ason wore a different look on Saturday as the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) rolled out its ‘vehicle-free Saturday’ campaign, transforming one of the Valley’s busiest marketplaces into a vibrant pedestrian zone. Under clear blue skies, 57-year-old Saraswoti Shahi stood cheerfully behind her food stall, serving traditional Newari delicacies to passersby. A long-time resident of Ason, Shahi had been out of work since footpath shops were removed from the area. On Saturday, however, she found renewed hope. “I had been staying at home with no source of income,” she said. “Now, every Saturday gives me a chance to earn again. This initiative has brought new energy into my life.” Shahi invested around Rs. 35,000 to prepare food and expects to earn approximately Rs. 50,000 in sales. For her and many others, the weekly market is more than just a commercial opportunity; it is a chance to reconnect with the community. “People are dressed in traditional attire and are promoting their culture,” she said. Launched with the theme ‘Living and Prosperous Ason,’ the campaign will be held every Saturday in key sections stretching from Kamalachhi Chowk, Bhotahiti Chowk and Mahabouddha to Ason. On Saturdays, vehicles are barred from entering these areas, allowing pedestrians to reclaim the streets. Similarly, entry toward Ason will also be restricted from Indra Chowk. Vehicle owners travelling through this area will need to use alternative routes. They are requested to park their vehicles at designated locations such as the Dharahara underground parking, Jamal Bahal, Durbar High School, or other assigned areas, and proceed on foot to enter Ason. Meanwhile, the impact became immediately visible on Saturday. Freed from the usual traffic congestion and constant honking, visitors strolled through the marketplace, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Traditional music echoed