Security ramped up in Nepal

KATHMANDU:Nepal has put in place an extensive security blanket in its capital Kathmandu ahead of the fourth Bimstec Summit that begins on Thursday, deploying more 10,000 security personnel led by army soldiers.

Following an assessment of security threats, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina will be provided “Z-plus” security cover, a senior home ministry official said.

Another top official said the security assessment had included threats to the heads of state and government from Islamist militants, Rohingya groups and the LTTE of Sri Lanka.

The Nepal Army will lead the overall security deployments for the visiting dignitaries and at vital installations, and it will be supported by Nepal Police, Armed Police Force and the National Investigation Department. Army commandos have been mobilised to protect the heads of state and government.

According to local media reports, a team from India’s Special Protection Group (SPG) will accompany Modi throughout his stay in Kathmandu. The 27-member SPG team will provide round the clock security to him.

The Bangladeshi premier will be protected by special forces from her country and a Nepalese security team, said officials. “The Sri Lankan president might be at threat from the LTTE,” a security official who did not want to be named said.

Nepalese security officials said they were keeping a close watch on Rohingya refugees living in Kathmandu, fearing protests against leaders from Bangladesh and Myanmar. Nepal hosts around 400 Rohingya refugees.

ODD-EVEN POLICY IN EFFECT FOR SUMMIT

Nepal has introduced an oddeven number driving plan in Kathmandu from Wednesday even as commuters faced huge difficulties. People were seen queuing for public transport and tourists were forced to walk at some places. Metropolitan Traffic Police Division chief Basanta Panta said the system will be in place till August 31.

SCHOOLS TO STAY SHUT

Schools in the Kathmandu Valley will remain closed during the summit, the federal affairs ministry said in a statement.