Several persons were injured Friday morning as residents and traders around Basantapur square clashed with metropolitan police amid protests to slam tourists fees for visiting the historic site around the Hamuman Dhoka Royal Palace and the Kumari Ghar.
At least dozen persons were arrested after the clashes and a vehicle was damaged, police said. The Kathmandu Metropolitan Council (KMC) imposed the fees, Rs. 25 for visitors from SAARC countries and Rs.200 for tourists from other countries.
The Durbar Square Tourism Promotion Struggle Committee is spearheading the protest. Placards saying “Say No to Tourist Service Charge” and “No second visa to walk the Streets” were placed at vantage points around the square.
The KMC said proceeds will be invested in maintaining the area listed as a world heritage site.