By Tenzin Dharpo
DHARAMSHALA, Dec. 5: China has reportedly completed one more road access point connecting to the Nepalese border point at Tiptala Bhanjyang in Taplejung district in Eastern Nepal.
The road connectivity from Tibetan Autonomous Region near Tingkye County has been finished from the occupied Tibet side by China although a stretch of some 17 kms or road is needed in the Nepal side of the border to link the road to major points in Nepal.
The newly constructed road has made it easier for locals in Nepal who engage in small trade with traders from Tibet, primarily the Riu bazaar which serves as a tiny hub for commerce in the region. Nepali traders exchange commodities such as rice, herbs and salt for herbs and carpets from traders in Tibet. Now, Nepali traders do not have to make the 2 hour journey into Tibet to conduct trade.
While locals and traders revel in the connectivity which will guarantee an easier life in terms of trade and access, the larger question of connectivity for China, through yet another point to Nepal is worrisome to stake holders in the regions geo-politics, especially India since the access point is close to Sikkim.
In the beginning of 2015, Nepal signed a four-point document endorsing the Silk Road Economic Belt endorsed heavily by President Xi Jinping for connecting Asia with Europe through road with China as the hub.
China’s ambition in making border areas with India accessible with road and railway lines have attracted notice from its biggest rival in the region with the latter kick starting the 500 kms Bilaspur- Manali –Leh railway project recently estimated to cost INR 22,318 Crore.
