Chobhar Dry Port sees arrival of electric vehicles for customs clearance

Published On: October 10, 2023 01:00 PM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

KATHMANDU, Oct 10: Chobhar Dry Port has recently witnessed the arrival of electric vehicles (EVs) for customs clearance, marking a notable shift towards eco-friendly transportation solutions. These electric vehicles have been entering the port for customs clearance since June 29, signifying a transition towards cleaner and sustainable modes of transportation.

So far, Chobhar Dry Port has processed the customs clearance of 83 petrol-powered vehicles imported by various companies, including Sangrila Motors Pvt Ltd and Jio Automobiles Pvt Ltd.

Ashish Gajurel, the executive director of the Nepal Intermodal Transport Development Committee, mentioned that importers started bringing goods for customs inspection, including electric vehicles, on October 7. As part of this initiative, EV Nepal G Motors Pvt Ltd has transported four electric cars within a container to Chobhar Dry Port.

These vehicles are directly transported to Chobhar Dry Port from the Birgunj crossing for customs clearance, streamlining the import process. The availability of customs clearance services at Chobhar Dry Port has attracted importers, and more electric vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming days.

The committee has been facilitating efficient services by waiving entry fees for cargo and new vehicles undergoing customs clearance at Chobhar Dry Port Customs Office, in addition to minimizing parking and warehouse fees. To date, a total of 202 containers and 87 vehicles, including four electric vehicles, have been processed at Chobhar Dry Port. Importers are utilizing two warehouses in the Exim area of the dry port for the storage of goods, and there is a growing number of businesses utilizing the parking and warehouse facilities at the domestic terminal.

Meanwhile, the operation and management of Chobhar Dry Port are currently in the process of being transitioned to the private sector. Executive Director Gajurel expressed optimism that this move will lead to increased business transactions at the port, further enhancing its operational efficiency. Chobhar Dry Port has been operational since April 11, 2022, and this development aligns with the ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and innovation in transportation.