BANKE: A large number of Nepalis working in various Indian cities are returning home as the Dashain and Tihar festivals approach. Travelers from cities including New Delhi, Mumbai, Himachal Pradesh, and Shimla are entering Nepal through the Jamunaha border point in Nepalgunj.

According to the Jamunaha Area Police Office, more than 5,000 Nepalis are entering the country daily. Police Inspector Rajan Prasad Bhattarai stated that the number of returnees is expected to increase further in the coming days. To manage the influx, the Banke District Administration Office has established a passenger assistance desk at the border.

Hemant Thapa, 57, from Dailekh, who returned after five years, noted that the border inspection process is now more systematic than in the past. Thapa, who worked as an apple picker in Shimla, said he returned to spend the festivals with his family. Similarly, Gangadhara KC from Jajarkot arrived with her children after working in Kullu for eight years. She shared that she had initially struggled to find stable employment in Nepal before moving to India.

Authorities have increased security surveillance to prevent incidents of fraud, robbery, or harassment of travelers. Inspector Bhattarai confirmed that they are coordinating with Indian police to ensure the safety of those arriving at the border, particularly during the night. Gopal Thapa, another returnee, praised the passenger assistance desk for making the travel experience smoother.

The Chief District Officer stated that a special security plan has been implemented, prioritizing the safety of passengers entering from the border. For many Nepalis who spend the year working abroad to support their families, the festive season serves as a vital opportunity to reunite with loved ones.