India-Nepal border in Darjeeling to be closed from Nov 17-20

Kolkata, Nov 15

The India-Nepal border in Darjeeling district of West Bengal will be closed between November 17 and 20 in view of the upcoming Nepal general elections.

Currently, there are two-border points with Nepal in Darjeeling district -- Panitanki in Darjeeling and Pasupati in Mirik.

The second border point is especially frequented by tourists visiting Pashupatinath in Nepal. The total Indo-Nepal border area in Darjeeling stretches over around 100 kilometers.

Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), the central armed forces responsible for guarding the Indo-Nepal borders, has started the sealing process. It is learnt that the decision was taken by the Centre following a request from the Nepal government.

According to inspector general (north Bengal) of SSB, Srikumar Bandopadhyay, during the period neither anyone will be allowed to come to the Indian side from Nepal nor anyone going to Nepal from the Indian side will be allowed through any of these two border points. However, he added that exceptions will be made for those coming or going because of emergency medical purposes and that will be allowed only by furnishing supporting documents.

It is learnt that SSB high-command has decided to deploy additional personnel at the border areas in Darjeeling district during the four days.

Meanwhile, the exporters apprehend major loss of business because of the decision to close down the two border points, especially the Panitanki border point, through which around 600 goods trucks move between the two countries daily. The trucks carrying vegetables from Darjeeling district mainly pass through this border.

It is learnt that the Indo-Nepal border at Galgalia in Kishanganj district of Bihar will also be sealed during the said period.