Kathmandu witnessed a series of demonstrations on Friday, with the ruling CPN-UML organizing a massive rally to display its political strength.
Labelled as a “Jagarana Sabha” (Awareness Assembly), the event was intended to rally against what the party calls “anarchy” in the country. The UML had aimed to mobilize 100,000 supporters for the demonstration, which took place at Durbar Marg instead of the originally planned venue, Bhrikutimandap.
Even though the venue change was based on public suggestions to minimise disruption to daily activities, the public faced significant disruptions as they navigated across the city. The demonstration led to significant traffic congestion in several parts of Kathmandu, including Maitighar-Koteshwor, Durbar Marg, and Kantipath to Maharajgunj. The demonstrations caused delays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., exacerbated by other protests happening in the valley.
Simultaneously, supporters of medical entrepreneur Durga Prasai staged a protest in Koteshwor. Prasai, who has accused Prime Minister Oli of investing $210 million in Cambodia, was recently detained by police for lack of proof to substantiate his claims.
In preparation for the disruptions, authorities set up 123 police checkpoints across the valley and deployed an additional 200 traffic personnel to manage the expected congestion. However, major roads remained clogged, inconveniencing commuters.
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