KATHMANDU : Special security arrangements have been made in the Kathmandu Valley for two demonstrations taking place today: the ‘Saving Nation, Nationality, Religion, Culture, and Civil Campaign’ led by medical practitioner Durga Prasain and another demonstration led by CPN-UML’s youth wing.
An integrated special security plan has been put in place after assessing the potential for intrusion into the demonstrations and the likelihood of untoward incidents. The Kathmandu Valley Police Office has established a command center under the leadership of DIG Lalmani Acharya to coordinate the deployment of security personnel. The command center includes an officer from the Directorate General of Military Intelligence (DGMI) of the Nepal Army, along with teams from the Armed Police, Nepal Police, and the National Investigation Department.
Armed security personnel have been deployed at key intersections in Kathmandu since the morning, and plainclothes officers are stationed at the protest sites. The CPN-UML’s youth wing is protesting in Tinkune, while the Prasain group is concentrating in the Balkhu area. Processions are scheduled to be carried out from various locations, with the Prasain Group planning a rally from the square in front of the examination control office at Sanothimi in Bhaktapur, Gongbu Chowk, Swayambhu, Kalanki, Jawalakhel, Satdobato, Tribhuvan University entrance in Kirtipur, and Chabahil Chowk. Similarly, the CPN-UML’s youth wing will begin its procession from Sallaghari in Bhaktapur to Tinkune.
Given the diverse routes within the Ring Road used by these processions, special vigilance has been adopted in the Kathmandu Valley. Plainclothes security personnel will be present in the procession to closely monitor the situation. Additionally, arrangements have been made to monitor the procession through CCTV footage, and drones are being prepared to oversee the Balkhu and Tinkune areas.
The District Administration Office Kathmandu has issued a prohibition order around the Baneshwar-Maitighar section, President’s office, Prime Minister’s residence, and other areas. Similarly, the Lalitpur administration has issued a prohibition order in the area around the minister’s residence and the United Nations office in Pulchowk.
The demonstrations are expected to impact traffic management in the valley today. The FM of the Traffic Police has assured the public that continuous information about road conditions will be provided. Some schools that transport students by bus have issued notices and opted to close for the day.
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