KATHMANDU – Containers waiting to get the approval to cross the Nepal-China border into Nepal in northern Tatopani point of Sindhupalchowk district for over the past one month have started getting the custom passage since Saturday.
Containers bound to Nepal carrying goods targeting the Dashain-Tihar festival from China remained stuck at Sigatse, Nylam, Khasa and Lhasa. According to Tatopani Dry Port and Customs Office Chief Narad Gautam, on Sunday three vehicles crossed the border to enter the country and three successfully completed the border procedures on Sunday.
But perishable goods such as garlic and apple have already become inedible. As Gatuam said, the containers are being permitted to leave for destinations with the completion of required customs and health protocols.
It may be noted that Tatopani and Kerung points along the Nepal-China border were closed since August 5 due to COVID-19 lockdown in China. According to Sindhupalchowk Chamber of Commerce and Industry, over 150 Nepal-bound goods-laden containers were waiting to cross the border since the lockdown.
On Sunday, officials and business community from the Trans-Himalayan Trade Association called on Foreign Minister Dr Narayan Khadha and urged him to ensure the opening of the border and help sustain their business.
