KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has announced that preparations are underway to fully operationalize the Korala border point in Mustang, with a focus on developing the necessary infrastructure and logistical facilities.
During a meeting with federal lawmakers and local representatives from Mustang at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar on Monday night, Oli shared updates on the government’s efforts to boost connectivity and trade through this northern gateway with China.
The discussion comes in the wake of the July 8 flood that swept away the friendship bridge over the Bhotekoshi River at Rasuwagadhi, halting movement through one of the main Nepal–China border points. On the same day, Oli had inspected the damaged region and directed relevant ministries to explore alternative routes, including Korala.
Highlighting his government’s past efforts, Oli recalled initiating the construction of the Beni–Korala road, facilitating Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Muktinath, advancing the Muktinath cable car project, developing a Super Zone for apples, and prioritizing mountain goat (chyangra) farming in the region.
During the meeting, the Mustang delegation raised concerns over the decline in tourist numbers to Upper Mustang due to Nepal’s designation of the area as a restricted zone.
Foreign tourists are required to pay a $500 fee per person, which local leaders argue is discouraging visitors. They urged the government to review the high royalty policy.
They also called for immediate blacktopping of the 97-kilometer Kagbeni–Korala section of the Kaligandaki Corridor and construction of key infrastructure at the Korala border point, including customs, immigration, integrated security posts, and a dry port.
Representatives expressed frustration that the lack of fully operational roads and border facilities, along with the restrictions imposed in Upper Mustang, has led to financial losses for hotels and businesses in the area.
The delegation included federal MP Yogendra Gauchan Thakali, Lomanthang Rural Municipality Chair Tashi Nhurbu Gurung, and Lopsang Chomphel Bista, among others.
They also urged the government to revive canceled contracts for bridges over the Tatopani, Dana, Panda, and Tangbe rivers to ensure uninterrupted road access to the border.
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