Kathmandu, July 15 (H.S.): Over 5,000 Indian devotees are stranded in Kathmandu due to delays in the visa process by the Chinese embassy for the Kailash Mansarovar journey. Tour companies have appealed to the embassy to expedite visa approvals to facilitate the pilgrimage without further delays. Pradeep Pandit from the Association of Kailash Tour Operators Nepal reported significant difficulties faced by passengers.

The Tatopani and Rasuwagadhi transit points connecting Nepal and China are currently closed due to floods, rain, and landslides, complicating ground travel for pilgrims. Both the Nepali government and tour operators have repeatedly requested prompt action from the Chinese embassy but have received no positive response.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal is working to coordinate with the embassy, and Foreign Secretary Amrit Rai has personally met with the Chinese ambassador to seek a swift resolution.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar