The sale, distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages have been banned for the entire election period.

The Election Security Committee made the decision to this effect.

The ban will take effect seven days before voting day and remain in place until the final election results are announced.

Voting is scheduled to begin at 7 am on March 5.

The Committee, formed under the Election Security (Management) Directive 2021, said the restriction is part of the election security plan to ensure a free and fair voting environment.

The Election Commission said that additional measures have also been adopted to conduct the polls in a free and fair manner.

Meanwhile, election campaigning will be prohibited from midnight on Mrach 5.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed chief district officers and security agencies to strictly enforce the election code of conduct.

District Code of Conduct Monitoring Committees have been activated to prevent violations under the Election (Offences and Punishments) Act, 2016 and the Election Code of Conduct, 2025.

On voting day, the operation of public and private vehicles will be banned from midnight on March 4 until the evening of March 5.

Only essential service vehicles, diplomatic mission vehicles and those with special passes will be allowed to operate.

Essential services include ambulances, fire engines, hearses, blood transfusion vehicles and vehicles used for security, electricity, water and telecommunications repairs.