Curfew extended in Birgunj until 1 PM

KATHMANDU: The local administration has extended the curfew imposed in Birgunj Metropolitan City, Parsa, until 1:00 pm today following rising tension triggered by a dispute over religious and social issues between two groups.

The curfew, which was initially enforced from 6:00 pm on Monday to 8:00 am Tuesday, has been extended by an additional five hours considering the sensitive security situation, the District Administration Office, Parsa, said.

According to the administration, the decision aims to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents.

As per the order issued by Chief District Officer Bhola Dahal, several areas of Birgunj have been declared prohibited zones.

These include Bus Park, Nagwa and Inarwa in the east; the Sirsiya River in the west; Gandak Chowk in the north; and Shankaracharya Gate in the south. All forms of gatherings, meetings, rallies and demonstrations are strictly banned within these limits.

The administration has urged the general public to remain indoors during the curfew hours except for essential purposes.

In case of emergencies, citizens have been advised to coordinate with nearby security personnel or contact the police emergency number 100.

While the curfew remains in effect, essential services have been allowed to operate.

Ambulances, fire engines, vehicles of health workers, hearses, journalists, human rights organizations, diplomatic missions, and passengers holding valid air tickets are permitted to move after showing valid identification or relevant documents.

Birgunj has witnessed fear and disruption in daily life over the past two days due to growing misunderstanding between two communities.

Tension and protests that began on Sunday prompted the administration to adopt heightened security measures in an effort to restore peace and social harmony in the city.