Strike disrupts life in Nepal
Strike called by Maoists disrupted normal life, with major markets, schools and colleges remaining shu, even as a bomb exploded without causing any damage.
The general strike called by Maoists disrupted normal life across Nepal today, with major markets, schools and colleges remaining shut even as a bomb planted by the rebels exploded without causing any damage.
The government alerted security forces with army patrolling major parts of the city. International flights at the International Airport operated as usual but domestic services were partially affected by the strike, Home Ministry spokesman Gopendra Bahadur Pandey said.
In Kathmandu, major markets and all educational institutions remained closed on the second day of the three-day strike. However, some markets were opened and a number of motorcycles and taxis plied covering their number plates for fear of Maoist revenge.
However, the higher secondary examinations were held peacefully today.
Meanwhile, a bomb planted by suspected Maoists went off at the busy Ravibhavan road this morning without causing any serious damage, eyewitnesses said.
The bomb left by two Maoists, who came in a taxi, exploded after the driver threw it on the street. The window panes of the nearby houses were smashed by the explosion, reports said.