RASUWA, Oct 15: The Rasuwagadhi checkpoint that connects Nepal with the world economy powerhouse China is at high risk of landslides. If left unchecked, this could disrupt trade between the two counties.
The 7.8 magnitude Gorkha earthquake in 2015 had significantly weakened the soil in that area. However, with no mitigation efforts from the stakeholders, the Rasuwagadhi checkpoint that resumed its operation only recently could face closure again.
Roadway to Rasuwagadhi blocked by landslides
The Nepal-China checkpoint officially resumed operation in mid-October. A security post and help desk has been set up but the structures are under constant threats of landslides.
Lack of landslide mitigation activities from the concerned authorities have threatened lives of the government employees and other people around. Big stones hurl down to the checkpoint time and again, risking human causalities.
“Despite the increasing risk of landslides, there are no plans to shift the security post and help desk,” informed Deputy Superintendent of Police Sharat Kumar Thapa Chhetri of Rasuwa.
The government has not taken any initiative to develop requisite infrastructure in Rasuwagadhi checkpoint. This has forced Nepali security personnel to work from makeshift tents. They have complained that working from makeshift tents have been extremely difficult. However, authorities have turned a deaf ear to their complaints.
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