**Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal Announces Alternative Route to Repatriate Nepali Citizens Stranded in China’s Kerung Region**
*Kathmandu, August 30 2026* – Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal said on Monday that approximately 1,000 Nepali nationals currently detained in the Kerung area of China will be brought back to Nepal via alternative border crossings, following severe flooding in the Bhotekoshi region.
During an on‑site inspection of flood‑affected districts in Vidur Municipality‑1, Dhang … (the specific ward name was not fully captured), Minister Khanal confirmed that the initial estimates indicate around one thousand Nepalis are present in Kerung. He added that the government is coordinating with Chinese authorities to facilitate their return through routes other than the usual border points.
Khanal also reported that Nepal has formally requested China to open the Tatopani border crossing in Sindhupalchok and to allow the use of the Korala crossing in Mustang for the movement of affected citizens.
In addition to the repatriation effort, the minister said Chinese and Indian experts have been invited to assist with the rescue of individuals trapped in a hydropower tunnel, and that Nepal remains open to receiving assistance from other nations if required. “The international community has expressed willingness to support us; we will accept help as needed,” Khanal stated.
The statements were made public in a press briefing following the minister’s field visit. No further details on the timeline for the alternative crossings or the exact locations of the stranded citizens were provided.
Article and image source: nagariknews.nagariknetwork.com
