Sustainable Operation of Tatopani Border Point Stressed

Concerns have been raised by local representatives, federal lawmakers, district administration officials, political parties, and security agency chiefs regarding the slow pace of operations at the Tatopani border point.

During a discussion held on Wednesday, participants highlighted the urgent need for the sustainable operation of the custom point and expressed worry over the delayed repair of the roadway from Bahrabise to Liping.

The discussion, attended by representatives from various stakeholders including customs offices, quarantine facilities, district chambers of commerce, and local residents, focused on addressing the challenges hindering the smooth operation of the Tatopani checkpoint.

With the monsoon season approaching, there was consensus among participants for the early upgrading of the roadway to avoid exacerbating maintenance issues during the rainy season.

Madhav Sapkota, a federal lawmaker from the district, emphasized the importance of sustainable operation of the checkpoint for trade promotion. He disclosed that discussions were underway as part of pre-budget deliberations, where issues related to the Tatopani checkpoint’s operation would be addressed. Sapkota also revealed that he had urged the concerned authorities to upgrade the roadway in line with the Detailed Project Report (DPR) prepared by the Road Department.

Furthermore, Sapkota mentioned an agreement made during the Prime Minister’s visit to China, wherein China pledged assistance for the upgrading of the roadway. However, he noted that if China failed to fulfill its commitment, the Finance Ministry could allocate budgetary resources independently for the project.

Pasang Norbu Sherpa, Chair of Bhotekoshi Rural Municipality, expressed disappointment that despite local-level efforts to facilitate the operation of the border point, the state had overlooked it. He emphasized the significance of the Tatopani border point as a crucial revenue-generating trade hub.

Security agencies present at the discussion reported that they were carrying out their responsibilities at the border despite facing resource constraints.

The stakeholders emphasized the need for concerted efforts to ensure the sustainable operation of the Tatopani border point, recognizing its importance for trade and economic activities in the region.