Birgunj: Authorities in Birgunj have ramped up health screening at the India-Nepal border following a spike in COVID-19 cases in neighboring India. Passengers entering Birgunj from India by road and rail are now subject to mandatory health checks.

The move follows a decision made by the Parsa District Health Crisis Management Committee on Jestha 15, aimed at preventing the potential spread of the virus across the border.

While inspecting the health desk at the Birgunj checkpoint on Monday, Birgunj Metropolitan City Chief Rajeshman Singh emphasized the need for heightened vigilance.

“Considering the rising number of cases in neighboring India, we are working to make our health desk more effective to prevent any spread here,” Singh said.

The health desk is equipped with masks, sanitizers, and temperature measuring devices, and is staffed by seven health workers. According to health worker Ibrana Khatun, temperature checks have been made mandatory for everyone entering from Raxaul, the Indian border town adjacent to Birgunj.

Authorities have called on the public to remain cautious and adhere to health protocols as a preventive measure.