Kathmandu, Nepal has unveiled a special security plan for the upcoming Vijaya Dashami, Deepawali and Chhath festivals, with around 3,500 police personnel to be deployed across the Kathmandu Valley.
Police have identified theft, fraud, robbery and misbehaviour in public places as major security challenges during the festivals. Bag snatching at busy junctions has also been included in the security assessment. Special attention will be paid to crowded areas, public transport hubs, markets and other places expected to witness increased movement during the festive season. Police have also urged people to stay away from gambling and other illegal activities and avoid quarrels, unnecessary noise and anti-social behaviour after consuming alcohol. People visiting crowded places have been advised to safeguard their belongings and pay particular attention to children and senior citizens.
Police personnel will be assigned to 22 different types of duties. The Kathmandu District Police Range has also issued a 13-point safety advisory for people leaving the Valley for their hometowns during the festive period.
Security checks will be intensified at entry points, with sniffer dogs deployed and closed-circuit television cameras used for surveillance, Ghimire said. Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Chief of the Kathmandu District Police Range Dilip Ghimire said security personnel would be deployed in uniform as well as plain clothes during the festival period.
