Nepal-China Trade Route Reopens: Miteri Bridge Reconstruction Marks Historic Return of Kerung Corridor

Full vehicular movement between Nepal and China has officially resumed at the Rasuwagadhi border checkpoint, ending a six-month standstill that disrupted nearly 70% of Nepal-China trade. The reopening follows the successful installation of a 91-meter temporary Bailey bridge by Chinese technicians, replacing the original Miteri Bridge that was swept away by catastrophic floods in the Lhende River last July.

Trade Route Restored After Historic Flood Damage

The Miteri Bridge, a critical link on the Syaphrubesi-Rasuwagadhi corridor, collapsed on July 8, 2025, when flash floods from a failed natural glacier dam destroyed the structure and stranded around 200 vehicles. The disaster brought cross-border trade to a complete halt, causing import revenue losses exceeding Rs 22 billion compared to the previous fiscal year.

With the new Bailey bridge now operational, the checkpoint can handle vehicles weighing up to 55 tonnes, allowing cargo traffic to resume immediately. Border Police Inspector Bikram Kunwar confirmed that eight Nepali cargo containers crossed into Kerung, China, by Thursday morning, signaling the return of normal trade operations.

One-Way Traffic System and Temporary Operations

Until January 8, cross-border movement will follow a strict one-way, alternating traffic system due to ongoing blacktopping work on the G216 border section in China. During this period, vehicles are permitted from 9 am to 2 pm Chinese time, with restricted movement for the rest of the day.

After January 8, vehicle entry will be allowed from 9 am to 1 pm Chinese time-one hour longer than regular customs hours-with temporary operations continuing from 2 pm to 7 pm. The Chinese side has emphasized that the one-way alternating traffic system will be strictly enforced during this transitional period.

Local Residents First, Traders Await Full Access

While drivers and workers from Rasuwa district have been permitted to cross since last Sunday, traders from other Nepali districts remain barred due to border pass restrictions. Chief District Officer Rajesh Panthi explained that only local residents and migrants living in Rasuwa are currently provided border passes, leaving hundreds of containers stranded on the Chinese side.

Officials expect full resumption of import-export activities and unrestricted movement from January 1, when the temporary operations will transition to standard customs hours. The reconstruction of the permanent Friendship Bridge is expected to be completed within a month, setting the stage for a formal inauguration ceremony.

Impact on Nepal-China Economic Relations

The Rasuwagadhi border point accounts for nearly 70% of Nepal-China trade, making its closure particularly severe for Nepal's economy. The prolonged disruption affected not only commercial imports but also the flow of essential goods and raw materials critical for Nepal's manufacturing sector.

With the border now reopened, Nepal's Consul General in Lhasa, Laxmi Niraula, confirmed receiving formal communication that the bridge is ready for use. The Chinese side has officially informed the Government of Nepal about the bridge's completion and requested coordination to finalize an inauguration date.

This restoration of overland connectivity marks a significant milestone in Nepal-China economic relations, reestablishing a vital trade artery that had been severed by natural disaster. As temporary operations continue, both nations work toward full normalization of cross-border trade and movement.