Rasuwagadhi Route Hit by Floods, Automotive Imports May Shift to Korala Border

The devastating floods in Rasuwa have disrupted one of Nepal’s key trade routes with China, prompting the Department of Customs to urge traders and cargo operators to consider the Korala border point in Mustang as an alternative route.

The advisory comes after severe flash floods on August 26 caused extensive damage to infrastructure along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river corridors. The disaster has affected roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure in the region, while the Rasuwagadhi Customs Office and surrounding trade infrastructure have also suffered major damage.

Rasuwagadhi is an important gateway for goods entering Nepal from China, making the disruption significant for businesses dependent on the northern trade corridor. The interruption could also affect the movement of automobiles and other automotive-related goods if normal cargo operations cannot resume soon.

To keep cross-border trade moving during the relief and reconstruction period, the Department of Customs has requested cargo vehicles, drivers and traders travelling toward Nepal through the Rasuwagadhi and Tatopani corridors to use Korala in Mustang as an alternative border point where applicable.

The move could provide an alternative channel for automotive imports from China, although the extent to which vehicle and other imports can be shifted through Korala will depend on route conditions, customs arrangements and the operational capacity of the border point.

For automotive importers and other traders, the disruption highlights the importance of alternative China-Nepal trade corridors, particularly as Nepal’s automobile market becomes increasingly reliant on Chinese-made electric vehicles and related components.

The Department of Customs has provided officials’ contact details for traders seeking information about customs clearance, alternative routes and operational procedures at Korala.

Navaraj Chaulagai, Section Officer: +977 9813564974
Pratisha Koirala, Section Officer: +977 9841071530

The department has expressed solidarity with those affected by the disaster and is working to facilitate trade operations while recovery efforts continue in the flood-hit areas.

Photo used for representational purposes only.