Nepal has announced a special security plan for the upcoming festive season with 3,506 police personnel on duty across Kathmandu.
The Kathmandu District Police Range introduced the plan to enhance public safety during Dashain, Tihar and Chhath, when increased travel, crowded markets and large gatherings can pose additional security challenges. The plan was made public on October 2, 2026.
Police officials said additional reserve teams could also be mobilised if the security situation required more personnel.
Police to cover Sensitive and Crowded Areas
Several religious sites and commercial areas have been identified as sensitive areas of the festival period.
The religious sites under attention are Pashupatinath, Guhyeshwari and Dakshinkali. The busy commercial areas such as New Road, Asan, Koteshwar and Kalanki are also being monitored for the security of these areas.
Shopping malls, jewellery shops, government and private offices, ATMs and other crowded locations will also remain under increased surveillance.
Police expect footfall and movement to go up significantly as people shop, visit their hometowns and take part in festival celebrations.
CCTV, Drones and Sniffer Dogs to be Used
The security plan will be based on technology and specialised police resources to monitor potential risks.
Police are expected to increase the use of CCTV cameras and drones, and trained sniffer dogs will assist with security checks. Personnel will be in uniform and plain clothes.
According to reports, police will be assigned 22 different types of duties, including patrols, security checks and surveillance at entry points and crowded locations.
The measures are to prevent theft, robbery, fraud, pickpocketing and other types of crimes which authorities say can increase during big festivals.
Transport Hubs and markets under watch
Public transport hubs are another big focus of the plan.
Passenger assistance desks are being established at Kalanki, Koteshwar, Gaushala, Gongabu Bus Park, Balkhu, Nagdhunga, Balaju Bypass, Sitapaila and Jorpati.
The move is meant to help travellers when large numbers of people leave Kathmandu for their hometowns.
Police are also monitoring risks such as fake tickets, vehicle overloading, drink-driving and traffic accidents.
Safety Advisory for Residents
Kathmandu police also urged residents leaving the city to secure their homes properly and not leave valuables out.
The public has been advised to be wary of suspicious messages, fake offers and online scams. The police also advised people to avoid illegal gambling, drink-driving and disputes during the celebrations.
