China proposes upgrading Korala as international trading point as Nepal insists on Tatopani reopening
Summary
China has proposed developing Korala in Mustang as an international border point after floods washed away the Kerung-Rasuwagadhi crossing, but Nepal is pushing hard to reopen Tatopani first. Officials say Tatopani remains the most practical route for trade despite seasonal risks at Korala and other northern crossings.
Key Points
- A flash flood on August 26 destroyed the Kerung-Rasuwagadhi crossing and damaged key infrastructure on the Nepali side, forcing Nepal and China to look for alternatives.
- China has proposed upgrading Korala as an international border point, but Nepali officials say Tatopani is the more viable and practical route for year-round trade.
- Nepal is pressing Beijing to reopen Tatopani before Dashain and Tihar to reduce import delays and price pressures, while a joint team has inspected the route.
- Trade through Hilsa and Kimathanka remains limited by weak infrastructure, and Nepal plans to continue pushing for better border connectivity with China.
