Birgunj border point opens; transportation service returning to normal

Parsa / February 5: Local people today retaliated and dismantled tents set up by the leaders and cadres of protesting United Democratic Madhesi Front (UDMF) at Miteri Bridge in Birgunj, Parsa, letting the blocked Brigunj border point resume.

Dozens of vehicles crossed the Nepal-India border in Birgunj-Raxaul smoothly today, 135 days after the border was blocked by agitating Madhesi parties. The movement was possible after local traders from nearby areas – from both sides of the border – burned down tents set by the agitating Madhesi protesters and chased them away.

UDMF cadres have been obstructing the border points which deals with more than 70 per cent of supplies into Nepal from India for past more than four months to protest some provisions of the new constitution.

The border police post said that with the border resuming, the cargo-laden vehicles stuck at Raxaul in India started entering Nepali while Indian goods-laden vehicles stranded on the Nepali territory also made their way to India.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and UCPN (Maoist) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal made separate telephone conversations with Nepal Sadhbhawana Party Chairman Rajendra Mahato on Friday afternoon. Mahato has been leading the protesters to block the border point.

“Birgunj route has reopened after your comment on reopening it on Thursday,” Dahal added, “Thank you.” Mahato responded Dahal with a smile. “You should come to Kathmandu at the soonest,” Dahal further said, “We should address the differences soon.”

In response Mahato demanded an honest commitment from Dahal. “Demarcation is our bottomline,” Mahato said.

After Dahal, PM Oli made a telephone conversation with Mahato. “Thank you for lifting blockade,” Oli added, “Let’s address the issue on demarcation. We are positive to address the issue.”

“The issues will be addressed through talks. We want a honest response from you,” Mahato responded to Oli. RSS