Banking Khabar / Once a quiet and nearly deserted marketplace, Jhapa’s old Bhadrapur bazaar is witnessing a notable revival in activity.
The surge comes after stricter enforcement at border customs points, which has redirected trade flows back into local markets and sparked renewed optimism among business owners. Consumers and traders who once relied heavily on Indian markets are gradually turning toward domestic alternatives, breathing new life into Bhadrapur’s commercial scene.
Authorities have begun imposing customs duties on goods worth over Rs 100 brought in from India, a move that has significantly contributed to the market’s resurgence.
According to local traders, business that had slowed in recent months has now increased by 30 to 40 percent, with expectations of further growth if the current trend continues.
The impact is also being felt across the border, where Indian markets are experiencing a noticeable decline in Nepali customers, leading to reduced sales.
Alongside tighter customs rules, surveillance at border points has been stepped up, with ongoing efforts to curb illegal smuggling. However, officials acknowledge that complete control remains challenging due to the open border.
Overall, the stricter customs measures appear to be reshaping cross-border trade patterns and revitalizing traditional markets like Bhadrapur—though their long-term impact remains uncertain.
