The Panitanki border, which connects India and Nepal through the busy route under Naxalbari block in Darjeeling district, has been fully reopened for passenger movement and trade. The decision comes as a major relief for local residents, traders, and transporters who had faced difficulties in recent weeks due to restrictions caused by protests in Nepal. Raju Bista, Member of Parliament from Darjeeling and National Spokesperson of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), visited the Panitanki border area on Monday to take stock of the situation. During his visit, he met the Inspector General of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), senior Customs officials, traders, business leaders, and local citizens. Bista said that the Panitanki border is not just a checkpoint, but a vital lifeline for thousands of people who cross daily for work, trade, education, and personal needs.
“The Panitanki border serves as a lifeline for both countries. A large number of essential goods and commodities move through this route every single day. The recent slowdown had caused hardship on both sides, but I am happy to share that the border has now been reopened fully,” he stated.In recent weeks, passenger movement at Panitanki and Pashupati Fatak had been temporarily slowed down following protests in Nepal. Only limited movement of goods and essentials was allowed during this time. Officials explained that the restrictions were taken as a precautionary step to maintain peace and security along the international border. However, the slow movement affected both Indian and Nepali communities, as local businesses, traders, and transport operators faced heavy losses.
For the residents of Darjeeling hills, Terai, and Dooars, the reopening comes as welcome news. Many small traders and shopkeepers depend on the steady flow of goods across the border. Local transporters, who had been waiting for clearance to resume services, also expressed relief that normalcy had returned. During his visit, Bista also extended congratulations to Smt. Sushila Karki, who recently assumed charge as Nepal’s Interim Prime Minister. He conveyed best wishes on behalf of the people of Darjeeling, saying that India and Nepal share deep historical, cultural, and economic ties. “We hope Nepal finds peace, stability, and prosperity under her leadership,” he added.
