Korala entry point at Nepal-China border has been reopened for 15 days for trade purpose. The border was opened on Wednesday. Earlier, China had opened the border for trade fair on June 15 for 25 days. However, it shut down the movement on the 16th day.

Officials from both side said that the border was opened in view of the aspirations of local traders. Locals have been demanding the Nepali and Chinese authorities open the border all-round the year.

Korala border lies on the northern part of Upper Mustang. As the area sees snowfall from mid-September, it has been opened now so that locals can stock enough essentials for winter.

Earlier, officials from both sides had agreed to reopen the border from August 20. However, due to favourable climate, it has been opened now, authorities say.

With the opening of the border, Mustang residents have started heading towards Korala, Lomthang VDC secretary Ghyurmi Bangyal Bista said.

Meanwhile, the government has initiated process to construct physical infrastructure for establishing Border Out Post (BOP) in the area. The move comes in the wake of China’s announcement that the Korala border crossing could be opened permanently in the future provided that Nepal assures strong security situation at the region.

On July, a government team comprising three Deputy Prime Ministers—Bijaya Kumar Gachhadar, Bhim Rawal and Top Bhadur Rayamajhi—had visited the area to assess the feasibility for setting up an army barrack and BOP in the region.

Also read: Govt begins preparation to set up army barrack at Korala border point