Bailey Bridge Complete: Nepal-Tibet Trade Resumes

The construction of a temporary Bailey bridge at the Rasuwa border crossing, which connects Nepal and China, has been completed. Following the completion of the work, the border point has officially come back into operation as of today.

Background of the Closure Last June (Asar), a sudden flash flood washed away the Miteri Bridge (Friendship Bridge). This left hundreds of Nepal-bound cargo vehicles stranded on the Chinese side of the border. After being stuck for six months, these vehicles have finally begun returning to Nepal today.

Strategic Importance The Rasuwa crossing has become a vital trade hub since the Tatopani border in Sindhupalchowk was closed following the 2015 earthquake. Beyond trade, this route is also critically important for tourism.

Cause of Damage The destruction occurred when a glacial lake in China burst, causing a massive flood that swept away the Miteri Bridge. The flood also damaged the customs area and the dry port currently under construction.

Restoring Trade Connectivity According to the Rasuwa Customs Office, the reopening of the link on Thursday will greatly facilitate trade between the two nations. The six-month disruption caused significant hardship, as this route is a primary gateway for importing:

Chinese Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Apples

Clothing and apparel

Alternative Routes and Recovery Due to the closure and simultaneous landslide issues at the Tatopani crossing, trade had become extremely difficult. As a temporary alternative, electric vehicles were being imported through Upper Mustang. However, with the Bailey bridge now complete, businesses can return to using the shorter and more convenient Rasuwa-Kerung land route.

The Chinese side initiated the construction of the Bailey bridge immediately after the original bridge was destroyed, and its completion marks a return to normalcy for Nepal-China bilateral trade.