KATHMANDU: The Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office has implemented a special security plan for the Tihar and Chhath festivals, deploying 1,600 traffic personnel to manage traffic flow and ensure passenger safety.
Superintendent of Police and spokesperson Naresh Raj Subedi stated that 14 passenger assistance desks have been established across the valley to address traveler concerns. Authorities are prioritizing the technical inspection of long and medium-distance public vehicles. Technical teams, in coordination with traffic police, are conducting mechanical and emission tests at bus parks, Jagati, and Nagdhunga before vehicles depart for their destinations.
To reduce accident risks, police have increased surveillance on speeding, overloading, and driving under the influence. Officials are also strictly monitoring the mandatory provision requiring two drivers for long-distance vehicles. To minimize delays caused by breakdowns, technical teams and equipment have been kept on standby to clear obstructions swiftly.
A specific security plan has been developed for Chhath, focusing on crowd management and parking near religious sites. Subedi noted that traffic and civil police will be deployed to manage congestion, with plans to use body-worn cameras and drones to monitor activity in sensitive areas. Where traffic police resources are insufficient, joint operations with the Nepal Police are being conducted to ensure effective traffic management and public safety.
