Kathmandu, September 20

Thousands of euphoric locals marched through the streets in the Kathmandu Valley waving national flags today after announcement of the new constitution by President Ram Baran Yadav.

As the president announced commencement of the new constitution amid a special function organised in the Constituent Assembly building, all major thoroughfares of the capital city witnessed rallies while many houses and buildings had been lit up with butter lamps and fancy electric lights.

The government had appealed to all to illuminate their houses today and tomorrow to celebrate the commencement of the new constitution and declared two-day holiday to celebrate the historic occasion.

Massive celebrations started around New Baneshwor, where the CA building is located, before the announcement of the new constitution. Various organisations and individuals also released balloons. The celebrations were crowned with fireworks display on the premises of the CA building in the evening.

Special security arrangements were put in place to prevent any untoward incident before and after the announcement. Police have maintained high alert across the country, with special focus on vital installations, offices of political parties and all transits of the Valley.

An official said no subversive activities were reported in the capital due to tight security arrangements. The government is set to organise the official celebration of the new constitution in the Army Pavilion, Tundikhel tomorrow.