‘APF with Border Locals’ scheme turns effective in Banke

By Siraj Khan,Nepalgunj, Jan. 18: The ‘APF with Border Locals’ programme implemented in Banke district has been highly effective. 

Under this initiative, the Armed Police Force (APF) has been able to strengthen its relationship with the locals living near the border.

Considering the possibility of strained relations between the public and the police due to stricter measures at checkpoints to curb smuggling and illegal imports, the APF has undertaken various activities for residents near the border, Armed Police Force Nepal Number 30 Battalion Bageshwari Headquarters, Banke informed.

According to Senior Superintendent of the Armed Police Force, Bimal Dangi, the programme includes free health camps, distribution of educational and sports materials to students as well as the construction of toilets, water tanks, and public rest stops at border checkpoints.

He stated that toilets, water tanks and public rest stops have been built near the border to provide facilities for residents and travellers in the border areas.

Chairperson of Narainapur Rural Municipality, Ishtiyaq Ahmad Shah, shared that respect for the APF has grown among locals following the construction of toilets, water tanks, and waiting areas at the Bagouda checkpoint, along with the distribution of educational materials in Ghor Daura village.

Similarly, the Chairperson of Duduwa Rural Municipality, Narendra Chaudhary, mentioned that the organisation of a free health camp at the Khadaicha checkpoint, alongside the construction of public rest stops and water facilities, has been beneficial for the public.

Under the programme, toilets, water tanks and public rest stops constructed at the checkpoints in cooperation with Narainapur and Duduwa rural municipalities were inaugurated by Nepalgunj Mayor Prashant Bista.

He remarked that strengthening the relationship between the police and locals of the border enhances border security, and the slogan ‘Police are friends of the people’ could be realised through these efforts.