KATHMANDU, Dec 31: After the government’s decision to dissolve parliament on 20th December, the frequency of protests in Kathmandu has increased swiftly. With the rise in protests around the capital, flag makers in the inner alleys of Kathmandu are trying hard to meet the demands for flags.

“We are making the national flags as well as those of various parties as protests are increasing nationwide. On an average, 1,000 to 1,500 flags are made on a daily basis. I also have been receiving orders from other districts too. We are having a really busy schedule,” Ravi Shah, a flag-maker, told Republica.

With elections announced for next spring, flag-makers like Shah are expecting a high influx as it is the main time for their business to operate round the clock without any break.

“In the 2017 election, I sold about 1.2 million flags. I expect at least the same amount for this year or even higher,” Shah said. 

Businesses like that of Shah who relies on printing press peak during the election and at the time of protest with increase in political temperature. A total of four full-time staffers are now operating the factory to meet the growing demand for now.

“During elections, we will need around nearly 50 staffers. Higher demands are yet to come,” Shah exclaimed.

 
• protests
 
• flag_business
 
• inner_alleys_of_Kathmandu
 
• demonstrations