POKHARA: The nationwide strike announced by Netra Bikram Chand (Biplav) led Communist Party of Nepal has also affected Pokhara Metropolitan City in Kaski district. Although few private and public vehicles are seen in the roads of Pokhara, most of the schools and industries have remained closed following the strike. An improvised explosive device (IED) was found at Pokhara Sabhagriha Chok today morning which was later defused by a technical team of Nepal Army. Similarly, District Police Office Kaski also informed about a suspicious object that was found at Bhandardhik in Lekhnath, Pokhara. Meanwhile, cadres of the Biplav-led communist party were not seen publicly. Government has strengthened security in the area in an attempt to reduce effects of the bandh. Nepal Police and Armed Police Force personnel have been deployed in various places of the metropolis. Similarly, police in civvies are deployed in various places to bolster the security. Bridges, buildings, parks, government offices and public infrastructures have been heavily guarded, informed Kaski Police Spokesperson Rabindra Man Gurung. No untoward incident was reported until 10:30 am this morning. Youths defy general strike Meanwhile, youths stood up against Biplav-enforced strike and demonstrated with slogans suggesting authorities to seek alternatives to end the row with Chand-led communist party. Likewise, youngsters affiliated to Bibeksheel Sajha have also hoisted the national flag at Prithvi Chowk of Pokhara.