Yes, authorities have decided that the Nepal–India border will remain closed for 72 hours ahead of Nepal’s upcoming House of Representatives election on March 5, 2026. The temporary shutdown has been jointly coordinated by both governments to maintain security and ensure a smooth voting process.
During a bilateral security meeting held in Biratnagar, officials agreed to suspend movement across all formal crossing points along the Nepal–India border for three days prior to voting day.
Border checkpoints in Nepali districts such as Morang, Jhapa, and Sunsari, as well as adjoining Indian districts including Kishanganj, Araria, and Supaul, will remain closed throughout this period.
The primary objective of the restriction is to strengthen election security, reduce the risk of unlawful cross-border movement, and prevent any activities that could disrupt the electoral process.
The closure will begin around the night of March 2, 2026, and continue until the completion of voting on March 5, 2026.
Throughout these 72 hours, regular travel for individuals and vehicles will not be permitted. Only emergency services and other essential movements, subject to strict monitoring, will be allowed.
Travelers planning to cross the Nepal–India border during this timeframe should revise their schedules, as normal border operations will be temporarily suspended.
What This Means
During a bilateral security meeting held in Biratnagar, officials agreed to suspend movement across all formal crossing points along the Nepal–India border for three days prior to voting day.Border checkpoints in Nepali districts such as Morang, Jhapa, and Sunsari, as well as adjoining Indian districts including Kishanganj, Araria, and Supaul, will remain closed throughout this period.
The primary objective of the restriction is to strengthen election security, reduce the risk of unlawful cross-border movement, and prevent any activities that could disrupt the electoral process.
Timeline
The closure will begin around the night of March 2, 2026, and continue until the completion of voting on March 5, 2026.Throughout these 72 hours, regular travel for individuals and vehicles will not be permitted. Only emergency services and other essential movements, subject to strict monitoring, will be allowed.
Travelers planning to cross the Nepal–India border during this timeframe should revise their schedules, as normal border operations will be temporarily suspended.