Life in Nepal's bustling capital, Kathmandu, has been brought to a complete standstill as an indefinite general strike takes hold, plunging the city into paralysis. The widespread shutdown, known locally as a 'bandh', is a forceful protest against a contentious water treaty recently signed with neighbouring India.
The protest has been called by the opposition Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), which has labelled the Mahakali River treaty a "disgraceful act" that severely compromises Nepal's national interests. Party leader Rajendra Lingden has vowed to continue the demonstrations until the agreement is completely scrapped.
A City in Lockdown
The impact is immediate and severe. The normally chaotic streets of Kathmandu are eerily quiet and deserted.
- Schools, colleges, and private businesses have been forced to shut their doors.
- Vehicles, including public transport and private cars, are absent from the roads.
- Major markets and commercial hubs like New Road and Durbar Marg are closed, with shutters pulled down on shops.
This has stranded residents and tourists alike, causing significant disruption to daily life and the local economy.
The Heart of the Controversy
At the centre of the political storm is a recently signed agreement between the Nepali and Indian governments concerning the Mahakali River. The RPP and its supporters allege that the treaty unfairly benefits India, giving it control over a vital water supply and undermining Nepal's sovereignty.
The party claims the government has failed to protect the nation's resources, leading to this drastic measure to force a reversal of the deal.
Security Heightened as Tensions Rise
In response to the strike, Nepali authorities have deployed a significant security presence across the city. Police and security forces are patrolling key areas, including government buildings and major intersections, to prevent any potential outbreaks of violence or vandalism.
While the protest has been largely peaceful so far, the atmosphere remains tense. The indefinite nature of the strike raises concerns about prolonged economic hardship and social inconvenience for the millions of people living in the Kathmandu Valley.
The situation continues to develop, with the nation waiting to see if the government will respond to the RPP's demands or if Kathmandu will remain a ghost town for the foreseeable future.
