KIRTIPUR: After two years since its completion, the Chovar Dry Port in Kathmandu has finally commenced operations.

Currently, the port is bustling with activity as two hundred cars await customs clearance.

Businessperson Bibhor Kumar Agrawal has been frequenting the dry port regularly in recent days to facilitate customs clearance for cosmetic goods imported from Italy.

The initiation of customs clearance for new vehicles at Chovar Dry Port, following an agreement with the NADA Automobiles Association, has attracted businesspersons seeking efficient services.

Nepal, lacking direct access to the sea, boasts 14 dry ports, with Chovar Dry Port being the latest and most modern facility.

Unlike most dry ports located at border points with China or India, Chovar Dry Port’s proximity to the main market of the country makes it highly accessible.

Businesspersons are provided with designated spaces within the dry port premises for storing their imports, which can also function as internal depots.

Equipped with godowns, racks, and loading/unloading equipment, the dry port ensures efficient handling of consignments.

Additional features such as CCTV surveillance, security personnel, container management, and banking services further facilitate customs clearance processes.

With a capacity to accommodate up to 500 containers, the dry port offers ample space for storage and operations.

Ashish Gajurel, Executive Director at Chovar Dry Port, highlighted the need to streamline operations to allow for direct importation to the facility.

He explained that while the current process involves initial customs checks at border points like Birgunj, the future operation of the expressway would alleviate such logistical challenges for exporters and importers.

Once the expressway becomes operational, Gajurel believes that both exporters and importers will benefit from streamlined operations, reducing the present hassles associated with transportation and customs clearance.