KATHMANDU, APRIL 17
The local-level people's representatives, federal lawmakers, district administration, political parties, and chiefs of security agencies, among others, expressed concern over the current operation of the Tatopani border point, arguing that it is slow off the mark.
They emphasized the urgency of sustaining the operation of the customs point.
During a discussion held on Wednesday, they expressed concern about why the roadway from Bahrabise to Liping was not repaired in a timely manner.
The discussion, which was also attended by representatives of the customs office, quarantine, district chamber of commerce, and locals, focused on the challenges of smoothly operating the Tatopani checkpoint.
The participants advocated for the early upgrading of the roadway in anticipation of the upcoming monsoon season, which would exacerbate maintenance works if not completed on time.
Madhav Sapkota, the federal lawmaker from the district, noted that the discussion took place as pre-budget deliberations were beginning, where various issues such as the sustainable operation of the checkpoint for trade promotion would be discussed.
He shared information that he had urged the concerned parties to upgrade the roadway as per the Detailed Project Report (DPR) prepared by the Road Department.
According to him, an agreement was reached during the Prime Minister's visit to China that China would assist in upgrading the roadway. If China is unable to complete the upgrading of the roadway as per the DPR, the Finance Ministry could allocate a budget on its own for the upgrading.
Pasang Norbu Sherpa, Chair of Bhotekoshi rural municipality, informed that the local level had facilitated the operation of the border point. However, he expressed disappointment that the State had ignored it despite knowing that it is one of the important revenue-generating trade points.
