KATHMANDU: A joint team of Nepali and Chinese security forces has started opening up the blocked Tatopani-Khadichaur section of Araniko Highway.

The 37-km stretch in Sindhupalcok district was blocked due to the heavy landslides followed by incessant rainfall for several days.

The road clearance task was launched today on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and China. The two neighbours had set up diplomatic ties on 1 August, 1955.

Engineering teams of Chinese Armed Police, Nepal Army and other security bodies of Nepal have been involved in this road clearance efforts led by the Nepali Army, according to the Department of Public Relations of Nepal Army.

At least 19 engineering equipment and 20 supporting equipment from China are used to remove the blockages. Traffic movement has been halted along the section of the Highway, connecting Nepal and China.

“The Chinese Police team has planned to work in Nepal during daytime and return to their soil for the night until the road clearance task is over,” the DPR said in the statement.

It is estimated that the task can be completed within 15 to 20 days, during which the Nepal Army will provide full security of the Chinese team.