Kathmandu: The Armed Police Force (APF) has established assistance desks at border crossings with India to facilitate the return of Nepali citizens from abroad during the festival season. As of Friday, 66 desks have been set up, with plans for an additional 50, according to APF spokesperson DIG Kumar Neupane.

These desks have been established in coordination with security personnel from both countries to ensure that citizens traveling to their destinations via border crossings during festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath have a safe, secure, and respectful journey. They are also intended to aid in rescue operations for citizens facing emergencies.

The primary purpose of these help desks is to ensure the safety of travelers, prevent illegal activities, and deter crimes such as theft and robbery at the border areas. Additionally, they provide support to those in need.

The APF is also setting up tourist assistance desks in eight districts to facilitate tourists. These desks will be located in Pashupatinagar (Ilam), Kakarbhitta (Jhapa), Jatahi (Dhanusha), Birgunj (Parsa), Belahiya (Rupandehi), Krishnanagar (Kapilvastu), Jamunaha (Banke), and Gaddachauki (Kanchanpur).

The APF has requested that citizens report any misconduct or unnecessary harassment by security personnel at border crossings. Complaints can be submitted by contacting APF Nepal Spokesperson and Information Officer DIG Kumar Neupane at 9851272007, Assistant Spokesperson DSP Shailendra Thapa at 9851264711, or DSP Sudip Regmi of the Monitoring and Grievance Management Unit at 9851261200.