Mustang gives momentum to preparation for Modi’s visit to Muktinath

Mustang, May 3 . Preparations have been geared up for the visit next week of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Muktinath, the world-famous pilgrimage site in Mustang district.

Security-related, reception and other managerial preparations have been going on a war-footing for making the Indian Prime Minister’s visit a success.

A team comprising officials of the Indian Army and security agencies arrived here on Wednesday in connection with the preparations for the visit. The team made an on-site inspection of Muktinath and took stock of the security situation.

Chief District Officer of Mustang district, Sishir Poudel said that the security arrangements have been intensified for the Indian dignitary’s visit by mobilising the personnel of the Nepal Police, the Armed Police Force, the Nepal Army and the National Investigation Department.

He said the security situation in Mustang was normal at present. The Indian Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive in Muktinath from Janakpur by helicopter on May 11 in course of his religious visit. There are two helipads below Muktinath. CDO Poudel said an additional helipad will be constructed.

Police checking and patrolling have been intensified at the border check-point and Muktinath area along with high security alertness.

Arrangements have also been made for provision of emergency medical treatment. Muktinath is situated at an altitude of 3,800 metres from the sea level.

The 76 kilometres long Beni-Jomsom road section which is otherwise closed for eight hours daily for repair and maintenance works has been opened for traffic for three days in view of the Indian Prime Minister’s visit.

It is believed that the Indian PM’s visit to Muktinath would contribute to further strengthen the Nepal-India relations at the people’s level. It is also expected to promote the arrival of religious tourists as it would help highlight the importance of Muktinath, said Chandra Bahadur Thakali, a civil society leader from Mustang.

A welcome committee has been constituted under the coordination of Chhemchok Chhekten Gurung, Chairman of the Bhragaon Muktikshetra Rural Municipality for giving a grand reception to the Indian Prime Minister when he arrives in Muktinath.