KATHMANDU, April 28: China’s construction of a safety wall along the Bhotekoshi River on its side of the Nepal-China border has triggered protests from Nepal.
Nepali officials fear the structure could alter the river’s course and cause damage on the Nepali side, particularly during the monsoon season when the area is vulnerable to floods and landslides.
Nepal says the activity violates a 1963 boundary protocol that requires both sides to inform each other before any border-area construction and prohibits unilateral changes to boundary rivers.
The Home Ministry confirmed the construction and said the issue has been forwarded to the Foreign Ministry for diplomatic action.
A formal protest note has reportedly been sent to China.
The Bhotekoshi River, which flows through the Tatopani border point, is also vital for cross-border trade, often disrupted during adverse weather conditions. (IANS)
