1st PHASE OF MAOIST INTEGRATION IN STATE ARMY COMPLETE AMID POOR RESPONSE Kathmandu, 18 Sept.: The first phase of integration of the Maoist ex-combatants into the Nepal Army was completed on Tuesday, according to the Secretariat of the Army Integration Special Committee, RSS reports. During the period beginning from September 6, the officials deployed from the Secretariat conducted the examinations of 1,544 combatants and handed over cheques along with travel allowance to those combatants opting for voluntary retirement package. According to the Secretariat, altogether 1,511 out of 3,123 combatants choosing integration into the Nepal Army now have opted for voluntary retirement from all seven main divisions and eight other satellite camps. Acting Secretary at the Secretariat Madhu Bilas Pandit said that the result for officers would be made public on coming September 23 and on October 7 for other junior posts. Eighty-five former PLA combatants have taken examinations for officer level and 1,449 for other posts in the Nepal Army. Pandit said that those disqualified from the examinations would opt for automatic retirement option. The Nepal Army has conducted the examinations with the participation of the Public Service Commissions and officials of the Secretariat. nnnn MAHAKALI RIVER BRIDGE CLOSED Kathmandu, 18 Sept.: People's mobility and vehicular movement on the Mahakali River Bridge have been banned citing the water level in the River that crossed threat point, RSS reports from Kanchannpur.. The water level grew alarmingly due to the torrential rains in the hilly areas in the Far-Western region for some days. The water current reached 170,000 cusec spreading menace, said Sub Inspector of Police at Area Police Office at Gaddachauki, adding that people and vehicle movements were banned after that. Meanwhile, the Mahakali River has intensified abrasion in the Indian side near Bhujela of Nepal. nnnn