Bhadrapur, one of the country’s oldest towns, is beginning to show signs of regaining its former status as a vibrant trade hub. A recent government move to tighten customs checkpoints has led to a noticeable uptick in local business activity over the past few days.
Traders and locals report encouraging changes as consumers, long reliant on nearby Indian markets, are gradually shifting back to domestic shopping. The renewed interest follows the enforcement of customs duties on goods worth more than Rs 100 brought into Nepal from India, making cross-border shopping less attractive.
For years, Nepali consumers were drawn to the Indian side due to cheaper prices on daily essentials, clothing, and other goods. However, stricter customs regulations have begun to directly influence buying patterns, boosting activity in the border town’s marketplace.
Ravi Gupta, owner of “Ravi Vastralaya” in Bhadrapur-6, said his business had been struggling for quite some time. “We were on the verge of shutting down and exploring other options,” he shared. “But the recent surge in customers has given us renewed hope.” According to him, business has increased by 30 to 40 percent in recent days, and could potentially double if the trend continues.
Similarly, Shatrudhan Prasad, who runs “Rajesh Store” in the same area, described the current situation as encouraging but cautioned about long-term stability. “The improvement is promising, but it depends on whether the strict customs measures remain in place,” he noted.
Veteran journalist Devendra Kishore Dhungana highlighted Bhadrapur’s historical significance as a commercial center. “Until 2034 BS, Jhapa’s main customs office was located here,” he explained. “After it was shifted to Kakadbhitta, business activity in Bhadrapur gradually declined.” He believes that while the current measures may not fully restore past glory, they are likely to have a positive impact.
The stricter customs enforcement has also affected cross-border movement. Prem Bahadur Lama, information officer at the Bhadrapur Customs Office, stated that reduced public mobility has influenced revenue collection patterns. According to official data, the office has collected Rs 134.379 million in revenue by the end of April in the current fiscal year 2082/83. Imports through this border include textiles, hardware, food items, and electronic goods.
Security agencies have also stepped up monitoring along the border. Shankar Shah, Deputy Superintendent of the Armed Police Force Nepal No. 2 Battalion in Jhapa, said that while some flexibility is allowed for goods intended for personal use, all items must pass through proper screening. “Goods are permitted only after paying applicable customs duties, with a clear distinction between commercial and personal items,” he added.
Overall, the tightened customs measures appear to be breathing new life into Bhadrapur’s market, offering cautious optimism for local traders seeking a sustained revival.
