
CHAUTARA: Around 600 containers loaded with vegetables and fruits remain stranded across the Nepal-China Friendship (Miteri) Bridge following a landslide that disrupted the Kodari Highway.
The blockage, which occurred at Iku in Bhotekoshi Rural Municipality-2, has persisted for the past 12 days. The landslide has affected an area spanning nearly two kilometres, severely hindering vehicular movement and pedestrian access.
Arjun Sapkota, Chairperson of the Nepal Truck Container Transportation Service, told RSS that the situation has become critical due to the government’s slow response in clearing the debris.
“It has been extremely difficult for vehicles and pedestrians to pass through. The landslide debris remains uncleared, creating a logistical nightmare,” Sapkota said. He added that efforts are now being made to transport goods manually by mobilising porters.
Criticising the government’s inaction, he called for urgent intervention to restore the vital trade route.
Meanwhile, Amit Kumar Shrestha, Chief of the Charikot-based Road Division Office, acknowledged the severity of the disruption, attributing the delay to the incessant flow of mud and debris.
“We are committed to reopening the road as soon as possible. Continuous efforts are underway to clear the blockage,” he said.
The Kodari Highway is a key trade corridor between Nepal and China, and the prolonged disruption has raised concerns over the supply of perishable goods and trade activities across the northern border.
By RSS