The local administration intensified security patrol along the Sarlahi section of the East-West Highway in view of the movement of thousands of passengers during Dashain.

The District Police Office in Sarlahi has started patrolling the highway area and providing security to night buses keeping in view the possible incidents of looting. “Security has been tightened along the highway to provide security to the passengers who are heading homes to celebrate Dashain with their families,” said Superintendent of Police Gopal Chandra Bhattarai.

Some sections of the East-West Highway passes through Banke forest in the district. The forest area is notorious for looting passengers on night buses by armed robbers. The armed looters intensify their activities during major festivals like Dashain, Tihar and Chhath.

Passengers as well as the transportation workers, including drivers and their assistants, are happy with the heightened security arrangements along the area. “It was quite difficult for us to pass through the Banke forest during night time,” said Rasanandan Bhandari, the driver’s assistant of a night bus. “Many vehicles used to be gathered at Hariaun and Lalbandi and crossed the forest area in groups. The vehicles, as well as the passengers, are now safe.”

A meeting of the district security committee decided to introduce security measures along the highway area during festivals. A security source said the security personnel deployed along the highway have permission even to open fire to control armed robberies.