Trade shifts to under-resourced Korala point after Rasuwa and Tatopani closures
Summary
With Rasuwa and Tatopani closed, the Korala border point in Mustang is under pressure as all northern trade is diverted there. Customs officials say the crossing lacks adequate staff, equipment and infrastructure to handle the increased cargo flow.
Key Points
- Korala is the only remaining northern trade route after the closures of Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani.
- Mustang customs chief Bidur Chudal is seeking extra manpower and better equipment in Kathmandu to manage the surge.
- Officials say Korala lacks basic customs infrastructure, including an X-ray machine, walkthrough scanners and staff quarters.
- Traders are diverting stranded containers to Korala, raising transport costs and concerns over congestion and road damage.
