KATHMANDU: Supporters are getting ready for a grand welcome as former King Gyanendra Shah makes his return back to Kathmandu from Pokhara today. To keep the peace and avoid any possible disruptions, officials have responded by increasing security in the city.

Police authorities have indicated that they have beefed up security measures to ensure no criminal activity, riot, or public order crime. Officials are observing the situation closely to ensure safety.

At prominent places like Tribhuvan International Airport and Nirmal Niwas in Maharajgunj, safety measures are now highly intensified. These sites have been classified as particularly sensitive due to the expected large numbers of supporters.

The Ministry of Home Affairs had previously estimated that up to 10,000 people could take to the streets, prompting instructions to security agencies to take appropriate precautionary measures.  

Several political groups, including the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), Rastriya Prajatantra Party Nepal (RPP-Nepal), and the Durga Prasai faction, have announced their plans to welcome the former king at the airport today.  

Authorities in Kathmandu have placed security personnel on high alert. The Kathmandu Valley Police Office spokesperson, SSP Shekhar Khanal, stated that an unusually large deployment of police officers has been arranged.  

Both the Kathmandu Valley Police Office and the Police Headquarters have assigned personnel to maintain order during the event. Security forces are prepared to handle any unexpected situations.  

A total of 1,134 police officers have been deployed to prevent any disruptions during the planned demonstrations. This number exceeds the usual security presence for such gatherings, SSP Khanal confirmed.  

In addition to the police, security agencies have mobilized water cannons, police vehicles, and ambulances to respond swiftly to any incidents that may arise.  

On Sunday, the authorities also deployed personnel from the Armed Police Force and the Investigation Department to reinforce security arrangements in key areas.  

Kathmandu’s Chief District Officer, Rishiram Tiwari, confirmed that all necessary security measures have been put in place, particularly along the designated route of the former king’s arrival.  

He further stated that additional precautions have been taken in areas where large crowds and potential disturbances are anticipated, ensuring that today's demonstrations remain peaceful.