Security personnel from both Nepal and India have intensified monitoring at 20 border points along the 83-kilometre open border between Bardiya and India, aiming to curb potential cross-border infiltration.

The majority of this stretch runs adjacent to India’s Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary and dense forest areas, which are considered high-risk zones.

Particular focus has been placed on the Ganeshpur-Laukahi corridor, deemed the most vulnerable, according to a source at the Bardiya District Administration Office. Stricter entry protocols have been introduced, including the recording of personal details at checkpoints.

“Joint patrols are being carried out in the no-man’s-land by Nepal’s Armed Police Force (APF), Nepal Police, and India’s Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB),” said Rudradevi Sharma, chief district officer of Bardiya.

Individuals crossing the border are now required to provide information on their destination, purpose of visit, return date, and the person they intend to meet. Valid identification has been made mandatory.

The increased vigilance follows recent terrorist attacks in Pahalgam, Kashmir, that further escalated tension between the two South Asian nuclear rivals–India and Pakistan.

Locals have also reported a noticeable decline in the number of Nepali visitors to Indian border towns such as Laukahi and Balaigaun, reflecting the heightened security measures and growing public caution.