KATHMANDU, JULY 12
The collapse of the Miteri bridge at Rasuwagadhi due to a flash flood in the Bhotekoshi River has halted cross-border movement between Nepal and China, stranding thousands of Nepali and foreign pilgrims en route to Kailash Mansarovar.
The Rasuwagadhi flood on July 8 had swept away the bridge at Timure, Rasuwa, the only road connection for the Rasuwagadhi border point. At least 20 people have gone missing, some confirmed dead. The flood also caused extensive damage to homes, road infrastructure, vehicles, hydropower projects, and livestock along the Syafrubesi–Rasuwagadhi corridor.
TAAN has urged the Government of Nepal to immediately initiate diplomatic efforts with China to open alternate routes for Kailash-bound pilgrims, including through Tatopani (Sindhupalchok), Korala (Mustang), and Hilsa (Humla).
The association also highlighted growing delays in visa issuance by Chinese authorities, which have left many foreign pilgrims stuck in Kathmandu. TAAN called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation to ensure timely visa processing and improve infrastructure at border points.
TAAN expressed condolences to families affected by the disaster and appealed to its members and tourism professionals to support rescue and relief operations.
