Kathmandu: The Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) has urged the government to swiftly engage in diplomatic discussions with China to improve conditions for pilgrims traveling to Kailash Mansarovar. This call to action comes in the wake of a border bridge collapse at Rasuwagadhi, which has disrupted the pilgrimage route.
According to National News Agency Nepal, pilgrims heading to the sacred site of Kailash Manasarovar in Tibet, China, are encountering significant challenges after a flash flood swept away the Nepal-China Miteri Pul border bridge. This incident has particularly affected access through checkpoints such as Tatopani, Korola, and Hilsa.
TAAN, the representative body for trekking agencies in Nepal, released a statement emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic efforts following the bridge collapse caused by the flood in the Lhende stream last Tuesday. The statement, issued by TAAN General-Secretary Sonam Gyaljen Sherpa, highlights the severe inconvenience faced by travelers aiming to reach Tibet via Rasuwagadhi in the Rasuwa district.
TAAN President Sagar Pandey further urged the government to facilitate a smoother visa process for tourists and pilgrims, noting the impending peak season for the pilgrimage. He called for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nepal to engage with the Chinese Embassy to expedite and streamline visa procedures, allowing pilgrims waiting in Kathmandu to commence their journey promptly.
In addition to logistical concerns, TAAN expressed condolences to those who lost their lives in the flooding and appealed for expedited search operations for the missing. The organization stressed the importance of immediate governmental intervention to support the affected pilgrims and ensure the continuation of the pilgrimage.