‘Safe Kathmandu Valley’ programme in progress

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Aug. 23: In a decisive move to enhance public safety and streamline urban life, the Nepal Police has unveiled the ‘Safe Kathmandu Valley’ programme. Approved as a three-year strategic plan by the Police Headquarters, the initiative will be implemented by the Kathmandu Valley Police Office, Ranipokhari.

The programme was formally announced at a press conference on Friday by the Kathmandu Valley Police Office. 

Addressing the press meet, Additional Inspector General (AIG) Tek Bahadur Tamang, Chief of the Valley Police, explained that the shift from traditional to modern urban lifestyles in Kathmandu has brought new security challenges, necessitating the launch of a comprehensive safety initiative.

As part of the programme, a ‘Neighbourhood Security Initiative’ will be rolled out to ensure that densely populated residential areas can coexist peacefully. Under this scheme, gatherings or activities in one household will be managed so as not to disturb the peace, security, or well-being of neighbouring homes.

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City has already instituted regulations ranging from warnings to fines to curb disturbances between households. AIG Tamang affirmed that the Nepal Police is prepared to act as a key partner in implementing these policies. Mechanisms for lodging complaints will involve designated local committees or organisations, ensuring that the neighbourhood security strategy is effective and responsive.

The initiative also emphasises the optimised deployment of police personnel, resources, and infrastructure across the Valley. Strategic security management will be enforced at critical institutions and during cultural festivals, fairs, and other large public gatherings to prevent untoward incidents.

Patrolling via mobile units, foot patrols, police beats, pickets, and checkpoints will provide visible security, while specialised arrangements will ensure the safety of VIPs and distinguished individuals. 

Traffic management systems will be upgraded with cutting-edge technology, and strict directives have been issued to improve police conduct, professionalism, and responsiveness, AIG Tamang explained, who is retiring from 30 years of police service in a few weeks. 

Robust security protocols, including CCTV surveillance, have been instituted at key entry points to Kathmandu Valley. QR-equipped Quick Response Teams (QRT) on motorcycles have been deployed to collect and analyse intelligence, guiding the strategic allocation of police forces. Crime hotspot mapping is underway, and CCTV installations are being expanded, with repairs prioritised for malfunctioning units, he said. 

Furthermore, profiling of individuals involved in criminal activities is being reviewed, while public awareness campaigns will target online fraud and cybercrime. Emphasis will also be placed on rigorous investigations, with programmes designed to educate citizens and prevent financial crimes.

AIG Tamang emphasised that the programme aims to combine proactive policing with community engagement, ensuring a secure, orderly, and modern urban environment across the Kathmandu Valley.