KATHMANDU: Authorities in Koshi Province have announced heightened security measures along the border ahead of the House of Representatives elections on March 5.

To curb cross-border activities that could influence the polls, all Nepal–India border points in the region will be completely closed for 72 hours, starting from the night of March 2 until the night of March 5.

The decision was reached during a coordination meeting between security chiefs from Nepal’s Jhapa, Morang, and Sunsari districts and their counterparts from India’s Kishangunj, Araria, and Supaul districts.

During the closure, only essential services will be permitted, while all other movements will face strict restrictions. Authorities expect this to prevent external interference and illegal activities that could affect the election.

Morang’s Assistant Chief District Officer, Saroj Koirala, said Nepalese officials have requested Indian authorities to restrict unnecessary entry of vehicles with Indian number plates under the guise of election campaigning.

The joint security and administrative committee has pledged intensified patrols, strict control over unauthorized movements of third-country nationals, and crackdowns on cross-border crimes including drug trafficking, human trafficking, counterfeit currency, arms smuggling, and illegal cash transfers.

Security officials believe this strategy, designating the border as a “security-sensitive zone” during the election period, will play a decisive role in safeguarding the electoral process in Koshi Province.