July 4: The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has banned the entry of vehicles within the Hanumandhoka premises. The metropolis took this decision to protect the world Heritage Site.    
KMC Mayor Balendra Shah said it is necessary to preserve the place for its unique identity and ancient heritage.

"These very heritages and their ancient distinctiveness are the ones that we can proudly show to the world. This place can attract hundreds of thousands of tourists," he said on social site.    
Noting that thousands of tourists visit Basantapur area daily, Mayor Shah said there is possibility of hundreds of thousands of visitors coming for a visit in future.    
He said vehicles have been banned within the Hanumandhoka premises, reiterating it is essential to preserve the uniqueness and aesthetics of the place and to keep the environment of the premises peaceful, clean and pleasing. -- RSS