Logistical challenges
District election offices in mountainous and remote regions report that transporting ballot papers, ballot boxes, and other sensitive materials remains one of the most complex tasks. Many polling centres can only be reached after hours of walking or with the help of small aircraft and helicopters. Weather-related disruptions and limited storage facilities add to the difficulty of keeping materials secure but accessible.
Multi-agency coordination
To address these issues, the Election Commission is working closely with the Ministry of Home Affairs, security agencies, and the Nepali Army. The army’s standby aircraft, highlighted in recent security briefings, will be used where necessary to move materials and personnel to and from remote hubs. Local governments are being asked to provide logistical support, such as pack animals, porters, and temporary storage rooms in schools or ward offices.
Ensuring equal access
Officials stress that voters in remote areas should enjoy the same opportunity to cast their ballots as those in urban centres. This means not only delivering materials but also deploying trained polling staff and providing voter education in local languages where possible. The Leaders will track whether any polling centres are relocated or merged due to extreme conditions and how that affects voter access.