Nationwide Vehicle Ban from Midnight March 4 Until End of HoR Voting on March 5
Kathmandu: The Election Commission has announced a nationwide ban on vehicular movement from 12:00 midnight on March 4 until the completion of voting on March 5 for the House of Representatives elections.
The restriction will apply to both public and private vehicles, following a decision by a high-level election security committee. However, emergency and essential service vehicles will be allowed to operate.
Ambulances, fire engines, mortuary vans, blood transfusion vehicles, security agency vehicles, and those assigned to electricity, water supply, drainage and telecommunications maintenance, as well as diplomatic missions and vehicles with special election passes, will be exempted. Domestic and international flights will operate as usual, and passengers may travel to and from airports using private or airline-arranged vehicles.
EC Joint Secretary and Spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai said the restriction will remain in place until the evening of March 5.
Meanwhile, the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages have been banned nationwide from one week before polling day until the final election results are announced. Authorities warned that violations will face legal action.
The Commission has asked the Ministry of Home Affairs to enforce the decision and ensure a free, fair and fearless election environment. The Home Ministry has already instructed Chief District Officers and security agencies across all 77 districts to strictly implement the election code of conduct from midnight March 2, marking the start of the silence period.
In addition, international borders will be sealed 72 hours before polling day.
Under the House of Representatives Election (Voting) Directive, 2082 BS, voters must present valid identification at polling centres, including a voter ID card, citizenship certificate, passport, land ownership certificate or driving licence.
To manage authorised transport, a pass distribution desk will be set up at the EC Secretariat and the District Administration Office in Kathmandu.
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