KATHMANDU, March 9: Former King Gyanendra Shah will return to Kathmandu from Pokhara today. His supporters have prepared for a grand welcome, prompting authorities to tighten security in Kathmandu.
According to the police, authorities have tightened security to prevent any rioting, illegal activities, or violations of social norms.
Authorities have beefed up security in the areas stretching from the Tribhuvan International Airport to Nirmal Niwas in Maharajgunj, considering these areas highly sensitive.
The Ministry of Home Affairs had previously estimated that up to 10,000 people could come out on the streets and had instructed its subordinate agencies to arrange security accordingly.
Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), Rastriya Prajatantra Party Nepal (RPP-Nepal), and the Durga Prasai group, among others, are all set to welcome the former king at the airport today.
Security personnel in Kathmandu have been placed on high alert. SSP Shekhar Khanal, spokesperson for the Kathmandu Valley Police Office, announced that Nepal Police has deployed an unusually large number of personnel.
He added that both the Kathmandu Valley Police Office and the Police Headquarters have deployed officers.
"1,134 police officers have been assigned to prevent any unwanted activities during the demonstrations, which is more than usual," he said.
SSP Khanal also confirmed that authorities have mobilized water cannons, police vehicles, and ambulances as needed.
Along with the police, the authorities deployed the Armed Police Force and employees from the Investigation Department on Sunday.
Kathmandu's Chief District Officer, Rishiram Tiwari, confirmed that they had made the necessary security arrangements for Sunday.
"We have tightened security, especially along the route. We have also made arrangements in areas where crowds and disturbances may occur," he said.
He added that they had implemented all necessary measures to ensure the demonstrations in Kathmandu on Sunday remain peaceful.