The New Nation - Internet Edition

Reuters, Kathmandu

Nepalis greeted the king's departure with joy on Thursday but cautioned the country's new rulers must now deliver the goods. A day after deposed King Gyanendra quit the main palace to live like a common citizen, the streets of Kathmandu buzzed with discussions about his departure. But there were no public celebrations.

Police in blue camouflage took over security at the Narayanhiti palace from the army. The palace is to be turned into a museum.

"Finally he has left. I am very happy," said 28-year-old restaurant worker, Devendra Shrestha. "Why do we need the feudal monarchy in a new Nepal of the 21st century?" A specially elected assembly overwhelmingly voted last month to turn Nepal into a republic, ending the 239-year-old monarchy.

The government has allowed Gyanendra to live in one of his former hunting lodges outside the capital until he makes his own living arrangements.

Gyanendra left the massive palace complex in the heart of the capital late on Wednesday saying he would not flee Nepal and vowing to work for its people.

Thousands of Nepalis cheered and danced outside the gate of the heavily-guarded palace as he drove out in a black limousine.

"Farewell to monarchy," said a banner headline in the Kantipur daily.

But public euphoria was mixed with caution.

"The change will be meaningless if the style and attitude of the new rulers don't change," said 22-year-old plumber, Chandra Rai.

"Politicians who are going to lead the new republic of Nepal must address poverty, hunger and disease facing the people," he said. "If they don't do that it will make no difference to us, the poor people."

The end of the monarchy was key to a 2006 peace deal with Maoist rebels who ended their decade-long civil war. They emerged the biggest political party in the April elections for a constituent assembly and are expected to form a new government.