BIRATNAGAR: The fallout from recent tension in Sunsari’s Dewanganj area has reached Biratnagar, the capital of Koshi Province, triggering widespread closures out of fear.

On Tuesday morning, major market areas and most schools in Biratnagar remained closed, with private school operators noting they had already decided on Monday to grant a holiday.

Although the situation in the Kaptanganj area is gradually calming down, demonstrations persist along the East-West Highway from Pakali to the Koshi Barrage.

Protesters have blocked roads by burning tires at various points, bringing public transportation to a complete standstill and leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.

Sunsari District Police Office Spokesperson DSP Chandra Khadka confirmed that while Dewanganj is settling, protests on the highway continue, prompting a heavy deployment of security personnel to regain control.

Police have urged the public to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions normalize.

Expressing deep sorrow over the incidents that occurred on Sunday night and Monday afternoon, three local levels in Sunsari issued a joint appeal for all parties to maintain social harmony, mutual tolerance, and peace.