Security forces launch patrols in disputed Humla–Bajura pasture region

By Rajan Rawat

Humla, July 3: A joint security base camp established at Lampata following the border dispute between Bajura and Humla districts has begun regular patrols in the Rani Kharka to maintain law and order and reassure herders from both districts who are grazing livestock in the area.

According to Ram Bahadur Bohara of Rayan village, Kharpunath Rural Municipality–3, who has been rearing sheep in the Khani Kharka area, security personnel deployed at the joint base camp, comprising the Nepal Police and the Armed Police Force Nepal (APF), have started patrolling the Rani Kharka region.

 He said the presence of security forces has given local herders a greater sense of safety.

Deputy Superintendent of Armed Police Force (DSP) Nanda Bahadur Saud, of the APF No. 44 Battalion, said the joint security team stationed at Lampata remains in regular contact with local communities and is conducting routine patrols in Rani Kharka, Lampata, Chhailekh and Kawadi Kuti. He said that the team is operating under directives from headquarters and in close coordination with the security agencies of both districts.

DSP Saud said the situation has remained calm and stable since the joint security patrols began.

Around 1,500 yaks, chauri, cattle and horses, along with more than 4,000 sheep and goats from Humla District, have been taken to the Lampata, Chyachaur and Rani Kharka pastures for seasonal grazing. The joint security base camp is stationed at Lampata, and security personnel walk approximately seven hours from the base to conduct patrols in the Rani Kharka area.

The dispute between residents of Humla and Bajura over the district boundary at Lampata turned violent on May 18. Following the incident, the Ministry of Home Affairs established a joint security base camp at Lampata around two weeks ago, deploying 25 Armed Police Force personnel under the command of an Armed Police Inspector and seven Nepal Police personnel led by a Police Sub-Inspector.