Over 160,000 Leave Kathmandu Valley in Four Days Ahead of Elections

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Over 160,000 Leave Kathmandu Valley in Four Days Ahead of Elections

Over 160,000 Leave Kathmandu Valley in Four Days Ahead of Elections

Ecosphere News Desk 2026-03-03 22:08:14

Kathmandu - More than 160,000 people have left the Kathmandu Valley over the past four days as voters travel to their home districts to participate in the upcoming elections, according to the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police.
Traffic authorities report a sharp rise in outbound vehicles, particularly long-distance buses and microbuses departing from key exit points of the Valley. Major routes heading toward districts in Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, and Koshi provinces have witnessed heavy passenger movement, with ticket counters and bus parks experiencing significant crowds.
The image captured from one of the Valley’s busy road sections reflects the surge: passengers carrying luggage queue along the roadside, boarding microbuses and larger coaches. Families with children, students, workers, and elderly citizens can be seen preparing for travel, highlighting the scale of seasonal mobility linked to the electoral process.
According to traffic officials, compared to regular days, vehicle flow toward major highways has substantially increased. Security checks and traffic management measures have been intensified to ensure smooth movement and prevent congestion at major junctions and highway exits.
Election periods in Nepal traditionally trigger large-scale internal migration, especially from the capital, where a considerable number of residents are originally registered voters in their home districts. Despite temporary voter transfer provisions, many still prefer or are required to return to their permanent constituencies to cast their ballots.
Transport operators have reported high ticket demand, with several routes fully booked in advance. Authorities have urged travelers to follow traffic rules, avoid overcrowding in vehicles, and cooperate with security personnel deployed along highways.
The mass departure signals active public engagement in the democratic process, while also placing pressure on urban transport systems and highway infrastructure. Officials expect the outflow to continue until the eve of voting day.
As the Valley prepares for a quieter city during polling, the movement underscores both the vibrancy of civic participation and the logistical challenges Nepal faces in managing election-related mobility.

Published Date 2026-03-03 22:08:14