KATHMANDU, March 14: The first day of a week-long Maoist rebel road blockade in Nepal left highways across the nation deserted, piling fresh pressure on Nepal’s King Gyanendra who seized power 13 months ago.

Security forces were on high alert and troops offered protection to vehicles defying the blockade.

“There have not been any reports of violence so far,” said an official from army headquarters on condition of anonymity.

Vehicles have been torched and booby traps set on roads during previous rebel blockades.

Fear of Maoist reprisals rather than physical action was keeping many drivers off the road.

Those risking retribution cover licence plates.

“The army has been escorting vehicles at various points along the highway,” said a soldier at Nagdhunga checkpoint, the usually jammed main entry to the capital.

The Maoists targeted Kathmandu and other big centres as part of their drive to topple Gyanendra, who seized power in what he said was a bid to end the insurgency.—AFP