KATHMANDU: The Road Department has initiated efforts to reopen the Galchhi–Trishuli–Syafrubesi–Rasuwagadhi road within a week, following repeated damage caused by floods.
According to the Department, reconstruction work is currently ongoing, with the goal of restoring full access within the next few days. The road section sustained significant damage in the flood of July 8, which washed away 1,300 meters of the road.
Although it was temporarily reopened on July 20, another flood on July 30 caused extensive damage to five additional locations, completely washing away 600 meters of the road at Medamudung, Kulung, Tatopani, Timure, and Checkpost.
New tracks have already been opened in Medamudung, Kulung, and Tatopani. However, progress has been slower in Timure and Checkpost due to difficult terrain and continued landslides. Notably, an excavator used by the department was buried by a landslide in Timure and remained trapped for nine days before being retrieved.
As of now, 300 meters of the road remain blocked. Officials say the road can be reopened within a week if weather conditions remain favorable.
Trade through the Rasuwagadhi border crossing between Nepal and China has been halted since the floods. Reconstruction efforts are also focused on building a Bailey bridge adjacent to the Miteri Bridge, a project currently being handled by China. Once completed, trade operations are expected to resume.
The Road Department has stated that it aims to restore the border route before the Dashain–Tihar festive season to ensure the smooth flow of goods and travel.
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