Donmo Thing-Thing border in Humla opens after 7 years

By Our Correspondent,Raling (Humla), Aug. 10: The Donmo Thing-Thing border crossing between China and Nepal, located in Chankheli Rural Municipality-5, has reopened after being closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This crossing, which had been shut down for seven years, was opened for a market period of 15 days.

Traditionally, the Donmo Thing-Thing crossing remained open regularly. However, after the COVID-19 pandemic, it was closed which forced locals to travel to the district headquarters in Simikot and other destinations. 

For long, this crossing was used for importing salt, oil, ghee, tea, flour, rice, and woollen blankets. The closure caused difficulties for residents of Chankheli, Sarkegad, Adanchuli, and Tanjakot rural municipalities.

Following the reopening of this crossing this year, locals from Nepka village in Chankheli-5, such as Jasbahadur Tamang, have informed that after a two-day trek, they come to Simikot to obtain a temporary border pass and prepare to travel to Tibet in China. 

Previously, travel was possible without a border pass, but after the COVID-19 pandemic, China began requiring one, according to Tamang. This market has been operational for generations. Last year, when the Donmo Thing-Thing crossing in Humla did not open, travel to China was made via Nakchenagla in Mugu district.

Locals of Nepka village in Chankheli-5 have said that it has become easier to bring daily necessities through this crossing. "Obtaining a border pass requires individuals to spend between Rs. 7,000 to Rs. 8,000 to travel to the district headquarters Simikot," they said.