Kathmandu, Nov 6: Nepal Police have stepped up security across the country under a special security plan for Tihar, Nepal Sambat and Chhath, deploying additional personnel to prevent crime, manage crowds and respond to emergencies during the festive season.
The ‘Special Security Plan, 2083’ focuses on preventing theft, robbery, gambling, betting, public disturbances and other criminal activities that tend to increase during major festivals, according to Police Headquarters.
Police patrols and surveillance have been intensified in public transport hubs, busy markets, border crossings and customs points. Plainclothes personnel have also been deployed in areas identified as potential gambling hotspots.
With Tihar celebrations involving oil lamps, electric lights and fireworks, police have placed fire and disaster response teams on round the clock standby.
Nepal Police spokesperson Abhi Narayan Kafle said local administrations had been asked to regulate Deusi-Bhailo programmes and ensure they take place within designated hours.
Police have also intensified checks to prevent the illegal import, storage and sale of firecrackers and other explosive materials, particularly in border and customs areas.
Through local radio, newspapers and social media, police have urged people to avoid fireworks, gambling and betting, and disturbances caused by alcohol consumption.
Security has also been strengthened along routes used for festive rallies and processions to prevent disputes and clashes between communities, Kafle said.
Police are monitoring noise levels and late-night celebrations, including loud DJ music, sound systems and fireworks, because of their potential impact on children, elderly people and patients.
The security plan also gives special attention to preventing domestic violence, physical assaults and personal disputes during the festive period.
Police have urged the public to immediately contact the nearest police station, fire department or relevant authority in the event of a fire, explosion or other accident. People have also been asked to help rescue injured victims and take them to the nearest health facility.
Anyone witnessing the illegal sale, storage or use of firecrackers and explosives has been asked to report it through the Nepal Police emergency hotline, 100.
People’s News Monitoring Service
Login to add a comment