Nepal plans temporary bridges to reopen flood-hit Rasuwagadhi border crossing
Summary
Nepal plans temporary Bailey bridges and a road track to reopen the flood-hit Rasuwagadhi border crossing with China, which has remained shut since August 26. Officials are also studying a permanent road link and a possible expressway to replace the repeatedly damaged route.
Key Points
- The Rasuwagadhi border crossing with China has been shut since floods on August 26, and reopening now depends on temporary bridges and road repairs.
- The Department of Roads plans to install a Bailey bridge at Syaphrubesi before Tihar, followed by four more Bailey bridges toward Rasuwagadhi.
- Rasuwagadhi is a major Nepal-China trade route, especially for electric vehicle imports, but repeated flood damage has disrupted customs and infrastructure.
- Nepal is also considering a long-term expressway between Kathmandu and Kerung as an alternative to rebuilding the same flood-prone alignment.
