Nepal-India border to be sealed during Modi visit

Some parts of the Nepal-India border will be sealed during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, an official said here Saturday.

Three adjoining districts of Nepal along the Nepal-India border will be sealed, said Bal Krishna Pantha, chief district officer of Rupandhei district.

Rupandhei, Nawalparasi and Kapilvastu will be sealed and no movement of vehicles will be allowed during the visit, said Pantha. Modi is planning to visit Lumbini Nov 28, a day after the 18th Saarc Summit ends.

Security officials from both sides have started patrolling along the border to beef up security in the bordering areas.

Security agencies are also keeping an eye on vehicles, temples and mosques and have deployed a large number of trained dogs.

"The border will be sealed for eight hours before his arrival in Lumbini," Pantha said.

The Indian prime minister is planning to worship at the Maya Devi temple in Lumbini. He will also attend a civic reception organised by locals and will address a public function.

Apart from Modi, Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa is also visiting Lumbini Nov 25.

Nepali security agencies have already implemented an integrated security plan to ensure foolproof security for the visiting dignitaries, according to Nepal's ministry of home affairs.

Similar security arrangements are also in place in Janakpur which Modi is planning to visit Nov 25, a day ahead of his visit to the Ram-Janaki temple, where he will address a public gathering.