Tatopani reopening unlikely before festive season. Traders urge Beijing talks
Summary
Tatopani border point is unlikely to reopen before the festive season as traders press the government to hold talks with Beijing. The closure, along with flood damage at Rasuwagadhi, has diverted traffic to Korala and raised transport costs for imports from China.
Key Points
- Traders say the Tatopani closure has shifted pressure to Korala in Mustang and increased transport costs for festival imports.
- China closed Tatopani on August 29 after the Bhotekoshi floods, citing landslide risk, and reopening before Dashain remains uncertain.
- Lawmakers have urged the government to open diplomatic talks with Beijing, while ministries say no concrete progress has been made.
- Korala is handling heavy traffic despite weak infrastructure, with more than 200 vehicles waiting for customs clearance.
