KATHMANDU, Dec 26: The reconstruction of the Friendship Bridge at Rasuwagadhi border crossing —washed away by devastating floods in the Lhende river along the Nepal–China border—has been completed, clearing the path for the long-awaited reopening of the Rasuwagadhi–Kerung trade route.
The Chinese side has officially informed the Government of Nepal that the bridge has been rebuilt and has sought coordination to finalize an inauguration date, officials said.
Trade between Nepal and China had come to a standstill after floods swept away key road sections along the Syaphrubesi–Rasuwagadhi corridor, including the strategically vital Friendship Bridge. The disruption was particularly severe as the Rasuwagadhi border point accounts for nearly 70 percent of Nepal–China trade.
Miteri Bridge at Rasuwagadhi to be rebuilt within a month
Nepal’s Consul General in Lhasa Laxmi Niraula confirmed receiving formal communication regarding the completion of the bridge. “We have been informed that the bridge is ready,” she told Republica.
The floods, which struck in early July, caused extensive damage in Rasuwagadhi. During an inspection of the affected areas, then Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, accompanied by the Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, had urged the Chinese side to assist in rebuilding the bridge. China accepted the request and undertook the reconstruction.
As floodwaters surged on July 7 and 8, the bridge was swept away along with all goods stored at the customs yard. Although the Chinese side had initially projected completion by the second week of November, the project was delayed by about a month.
The disaster began when floodwaters from the Lhende river in Tibet merged with the Bhotekoshi River, unleashing widespread devastation. More than 30 people lost their lives.
On the Nepali side, over 25 container-loaded vehicles parked at the customs yard were washed away, along with around 35 electric vehicles (EVs) and six trucks.
