KATHMANDU: No untoward incidents has been reported from the five parties’ one-day strike in Kathmandu Valley until 2 pm this afternoon. The strike, however, has brought life to a standstill in the Valley.

According to witnesses and reports, sporadic incidents of clashes between strike organisers and security forces have been reported in the Valley. Such clashes occurred in Sanepa of Lalitpur and in front of Bir Hospital, Kathmandu, the reports said.

The organisers noon seized keys from many vehicles plying at the roads in front of Bir Hospital. They, however, did not cause any damage to the vehicles, according to witnesses.

Different groups of organisers were also seen taking out rallies from different localities of the capital dodging the security forces, the witnesses said.

Security personnel were seen deputed at major areas of the capital, such as Durbar Marg, Ratna Park, Bag Bazaar, Chabahil, Kupondole, Pulchowk, Kalanki and Balaju, among others.

Except few dispensaries and hospitals, almost all shops, educational institutions and business activities were closed. The five parties have plans to march joint rallies at Ratnapark area after 2 pm Monday, party sources said. nepalnews.com mr Feb 02 04