Nepal-China border road reopens after 40-day landslide closure

The vital road connecting Nepal and China at the Tatopani border point has reopened after a 40-day disruption caused by a landslide. The closure, which began on July 15, significantly impacted trade and logistics.

Vehicular movement resumed on Monday after the Road Division Office mobilized six tippers and two heavy equipment vehicles to clear the debris. Narayan Dutta Bhandari, Chief of the Division Office, stated that road maintenance will soon commence in the Liping area as well. This effort aims to ensure smoother traffic flow and prevent future obstructions.

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The containers stranded in Kodari bazaar have moved to the customs office after the traffic resumption.

While the reopening is a relief for traders, some challenges remain. Buddharaj Basnet, Chair of the Sindhupalchowk Chamber of Commerce and Industry, noted that while stranded containers in Kodari bazaar have moved to the customs office, approximately 85 more are still stuck in the Liping area. Traders have voiced concerns about substantial losses incurred during the prolonged closure and expressed hope for unimpeded imports during the upcoming festival season.

Kumar Shrestha, Chair of Bhotekoshi Rural Municipality-2, highlighted that the Tatopani border point's smooth operation hinges on the maintenance of the road in the Liping area. Despite the clearing of the Eco area, full functionality is not yet guaranteed until further maintenance is completed.

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The Tatopani border point is not likely to operate unhindered until the road in the Liping area is maintained, though the road was cleared along the Eco area.