Border points with China could operate soon if govt takes prompt initiatives; development committee report
Sun, Dec 20, 2015 11:56 AM on External Media,
Kathmandu, Dec 19: As the country is reeling from Indian blockade, resulting in disruption in cargo supply, Nepal's four border points with China that are obstructed due to various reasons including April 25 earthquake could come into operation if the government takes prompt initiatives and shows readiness for proper investment in this regard, a report made by the development committee under the Legislature-Parliament said.
Recently, the committee carried out a technical study on the possibility of opening blocked four border points with China, including Korala of Mustang, Tatopani of Sindhupalchok, Kerung of Rasuwa and Olanchungola of Taplejung, in an effort to resume the border points for the imports of cargo from the northern neighbour in the wake of the blockade. The report said that the Korala border could resume within three months if the process to repair the damaged road starts soon. Around 100 kilometer Jomsom-Korala road has suffered extensive damages, which needs to be repaired for its operation, the report said. Officials of both Nepal and China have also agreed to open the border point in December 3, 2003, while China government pledges to upgrade Pokhara-Jomsom and Jomsom-Korala roads. Around Rs 10 billion is estimated in blacktopping and upgrading Beni-Mustang and Jomsom-Korala road. Likewise, the government is preparing to open Kimanthang border point with China within two years. Road construction is underway to open the border. Of the total 162 kilometers trail leading to the border point, works on 80 kilometers track has been completed, it has been learnt. Around Rs 10 billion is estimated to cost to open the track. Meanwhile, Rabindra Adhikari, president of the development committee, said that India could also benefit from Nepal's efforts to open its border points with China and vice-versa. He stressed on the need for developing Nepal as buffer zone and trading hub for both India and China. RSS
