Ahead of Nepal polls, India, China borders closed

Kathmandu: According to the Home Ministry, Nepal has closed its borders with India and China for 72 hours ahead of the local elections scheduled to be held on Friday. The ministry also said that the government's decision to close the international borders before and during the election was to prevent any unwanted incidents from happening during the polls that will be held in 753 local units.

Ministry spokesman Phanindra Mani Pokharel said that a directive has been issued to the respective administration offices of the districts bordering India and China to implement the recommendations.

The adjoining districts have been asked to halt all movements, except for emergency services, during the 72-hour period.

Political parties are gearing up for Friday's elections which come after a gap of five years.

The ruling alliance, main opposition, CPN-UML, Madhes-based political parties are among contesting the polls.

Nepal shares a 1,880-km border with India and a 1,414-km with China.

Out of 77 districts, as many as 42 either share a border with India, China or both.

With inputs from IANS