"There were no obstructions at the border point since the past four days," said DSP Shyam Krishna Adhikari, chief of Kakarbhitta Police Office.According to him, around 150 to 200 consignment trucks have been entering the country on a daily basis. The border-point had been closed for a long time. Hence, sudden flow of hundreds of consignment trucks has created shortage of parking space on the premises of the Mechi Customs Office.
According to DSP Adhikari, 500 vehicles entered the country on Wednesday through Pani Tanki border point while 200 vehicles entered on Thursday. Around 15 to 22 container trucks were laden with petroleum products. This has made Nepali officials as well as business persons feel that blockade has been removed.
"The Indian customs and Sima Surakshya Bal (SSB) have been providing us with clearance easily. A week ago, we had to wait for days in queue even after receiving the customs pass," said Uttam Karki, a truck driver.
The SSB had prevented entry of trucks citing security reasons and instructions from higher level officials after the start of unofficial blockade imposed by India from September 23.
According to Nabin Koirala, a petroleum dealer, the Indian Oil Corporation does not hesitate to meet their demands anymore. "I feel that the blockade has been removed. India no longer obstructs the entry of petroleum-laden trucks," he added.
Before the border had been eased, many had filed complaints accusing the Indian security forces and local gangsters of extorting money from the halted trucks. The trucks staying in queue were forced to bribe them to enter Nepal fast. Now the drivers say they do not have to bear such "extra expenses" anymore. Black-marketing of fuel is also expected to end as the fuel supply has been consistent lately.
Related story
Kakarbhitta reaches last four
