Rasuwagadhi-Kyirong Highway set to resume operations amidst continuous rainfall, boosting Nepal-China trade

October 27, 2024, 10:59:48 AM |

KATHMANDU: The Rasuwagadhi-Kyirong Highway, which connects Nepal and China, is scheduled to reopen on Monday following reconstruction efforts by Chinese authorities. The road, which had been closed due to landslides triggered by continuous rainfall, has remained blocked since September 28, disrupting trade between the two neighboring countries.

According to Chief District Officer of Rasuwa, Arjun Paudel, Chinese authorities completed repairs by Sunday and notified Nepal of the highway’s reopening via a phone call. “The Chinese side has shown exceptional commitment in getting the highway operational despite the challenges posed by adverse weather conditions,” Paudel said, emphasizing the importance of the route in Nepal-China trade.

The Nepalese Consul General in Lhasa, Navaraj Dhakal, played a crucial role in facilitating the reconstruction efforts, helping to coordinate between Nepalese and Chinese officials to expedite the reopening. The highway’s resumption is expected to revive trade activities, as the route is a major hub for goods transportation between Nepal and China.

The blockage occurred near Thongsa, where a landslide on the Chinese side left the road impassable. Vehicles carrying Chinese goods were stranded in the Timure area, affecting supply chains and disrupting the movement of goods critical to Nepal’s economy.

Musa Transport, a major Chinese logistics company operating in the region, confirmed that its vehicles and goods had been held up in Timure due to the road closure. With the route set to reopen, the backlog of goods is anticipated to move into Nepal, easing pressure on local markets and revitalizing cross-border trade.

The reopening of the Rasuwagadhi-Kerung highway is a positive development for Nepal’s economy, as it fosters stronger trade ties with China and enhances economic opportunities through streamlined logistics. Both governments are hopeful that improved infrastructure and response mechanisms will ensure the resilience of this critical trade route against similar disruptions in the future.

Fiscal Nepal |

Sunday October 27, 2024, 10:59:48 AM |