In a significant development for international travelers, restrictions on third-country nationals entering India via the Gaddachauki border transit point have been lifted. This change follows a key initiative by Nepal’s Home Affairs Minister, Ramesh Lekhak.
The easing of travel restrictions was announced after a productive meeting between Minister Lekhak and the Ambassador of India to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava. The ambassador called the Home Minister at the Ministry of Home Affairs soon after Lekhak assumed office.
During their discussion, both officials addressed the need to remove the COVID-19-era restrictions imposed on foreign nationals entering India through the border checkpoints. These measures, implemented on December 10, 2021, had significantly hindered the movement of tourists. They also deliberated on restoring the previous status quo at the border.
Following the discussions, India officially removed the restrictions on July 30, facilitating smoother travel for international tourists via the Gaddachauki transit point. Padam Raj Bhatta, Chief of the Gaddachauki-based Immigration Office, confirmed this update.
“Seven foreign tourists have entered India from Nepal via this transit point since July 30,” Bhatta reported.
The restriction had been a major concern for stakeholders and the private sector in Kanchanpur, who had repeatedly urged the government over the past three years to lift the travel barriers. The Gaddachauki transit point is a crucial passage for approximately 3,000 foreign tourists annually. The reinstated access is expected to significantly ease the journey for these travelers, who had faced numerous challenges due to the restrictions.
“The travel for tourists to India via the transit point has now been eased,” Bhatta affirmed, marking a positive turn for international tourism in the region.
