KATHMANDU: The police have made elaborate security arrangements to prevent any untoward incidents during Holi, the festival of colours, in Kathmandu.

SP Ganesh KC, in-charge, Metropolitan Police Range, Hanumandhoka, said pickets were set up in 44 places in the capital city under the special security plan for Holi.

"Eighteen mobile patrols and four striking forces have been deployed to ensure that Holi revellers will enjoy the festival without any harm to others. Two platoons are in reserve," he said.

"History has it that revellers, especially teenagers, engage in scuffle with rival gangs in the pretext of playing with colours and water cannons.

They will be arrested and put on trial as per the Some Public Offences Act if found guilty of throwing colours and water-filled balloons on others without their consent".