All three trade points with China shut, festival supplies affected

Imports of goods for Dashain, Tihar and Chhath have been affected after floods and landslides shut all three trade points with China — Rasuwagadhi, Tatopani and Korala. Traders say clothing, footwear, electronics and decorative items coming from China are stuck en route.

The Rasuwagadhi crossing has been completely closed since the Bhotekoshi flood on Bhadra 10. Nepal Police said the main road to Rasuwagadhi remains blocked as large sections of the Pasang Lhamu Highway along the Trishuli bank have been washed away. China had informed the Nepal government that it closed the Tatopani crossing from Bhadra 12.

Floods and landslides from Asoj 8 to 11 disrupted roads, electricity and communications along the Kaligandaki corridor, halting cargo movement through the Korala crossing as well. Office chief Bidur Chudal said revenue collection has been affected as inspection and clearance work has stopped at the Nechung customs office in Mustang.

Ramhari Karki, chairman of the Nepal Himalaya Cross-Border Trade Association, said around 500 to 700 containers bound for Korala are stuck on the Chinese side, and the crossing is likely to remain closed for another 10-12 days.

The government has stepped up efforts to reopen the Tatopani crossing immediately. A joint team comprising representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Department of Customs, Department of Roads, security agencies and officials from the Chinese embassy carried out an on-site inspection at the crossing via the Araniko Highway on Tuesday. Since vehicles can reportedly run on the Nepal side of the road, reopening of the crossing now depends on a decision by the Chinese side.