Syafrubensi–Rasuwagadhi Road to Reopen Friday; Cross-Border Trade Remains Blocked as Miteri Bridge Awaits China’s Response
After nine days of disruption, the Syafrubensi–Rasuwagadhi road is set to reopen for small vehicles. However, reconstruction of the key Miteri Bridge connecting Nepal and China remains in diplomatic limbo.
Nepal’s Syafrubensi–Rasuwagadhi road, a vital trade route to China, is scheduled to partially reopen on Friday, nine days after floods swept away nearly 1 km of the highway, cutting off Timure and Rasuwagadhi.
While reconstruction efforts have made progress—particularly near Lingling landslide where road-cutting works are nearing completion—only small vehicles will initially be allowed. Federal Road Supervision Chief Shubharaj Neupane confirmed that trucks will be permitted in a second phase.
Despite road reopening, cross-border trade remains paralyzed as the Miteri Bridge, which connects Nepal to Kerung, was destroyed by the flood. Reconstruction has stalled due to lack of response from the Chinese government, which built the original bridge.
At Rasuwa Customs, over 200 electric vehicles, 50 cargo trucks, and 12 apple-loaded trucks bound for Nepal remain stranded. Customs Officer Chandiraj Gelal confirmed damages to at least 20 trucks and 32 electric vehicles, causing serious disruption to import-export activities.
The closure threatens food supply in Gosainkunda and surrounding rural municipalities, which rely on imports via the border. Local chairman Kaisang Nurpu Tamang warned of a food crisis if road access is not restored soon.
Nepal had set a revenue target of NPR 30 billion from Rasuwa Customs this fiscal year. As of Monday, collections stood at NPR 29.86 billion, leaving NPR 140 million short of target.
Meanwhile, Nepal’s Ministry of Infrastructure confirmed ongoing diplomatic talks with the Chinese Embassy, seeking a quick resolution for bridge reconstruction. “Without China’s consent, we cannot rebuild the bridge,” said Secretary Keshav Sharma.
With Dashain approaching, authorities are under pressure to restore trade routes. Locals have demanded the installation of a temporary Bailey bridge to resume supply chains.