Kathmandu: The Nepal Overseas Export Import Association has called on the government to take diplomatic steps to open alternative border crossings with China after trade was disrupted due to the closure of the Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani routes following floods and landslides.

Key Crossings Blocked by Floods

The Rasuwagadhi border crossing has been shut down since Ashad 24 after floods washed away the Miteri Bridge that connects Nepal and China. Similarly, the Tatopani border crossing in Sindhupalchowk has remained blocked for the past two weeks. As a result, hundreds of containers and trucks carrying goods to Nepal are stranded.

Call for Alternative Routes

The association stressed the urgency of finding alternative land routes to maintain trade with China. It recalled that the Development Committee of the Legislative Assembly had recommended opening the Korala and Olangchungola crossings back in 2072 BS.

A decade ago, Nepal and China had agreed to open seven northern border crossings, including Tatopani, Korala (Mustang), Kimathanka (Sankhuwasabha), Lamabagar (Dolakha), Olangchungola (Taplejung), Amjapas (Mugu), Yari-Hilsa (Humla), and Larke (Gorkha).

Korala Crossing Ready for Operation

According to the association, the Korala border point is capable of operating year-round, with infrastructure on the Chinese side already completed and road connectivity established on the Nepali side.

Impact on Trade and Economy

China is Nepal’s second-largest import partner. With major festivals approaching, the prolonged closure of these crossings risks a slowdown in business activity, potential shortages of goods, and rising prices for consumers. The association warned that this situation could also affect government revenue and urged immediate diplomatic efforts to operationalize more border points.