Since the reopening of the Kimathanka border point in May 2024, the Sankhuwasabha District Administration Office has issued 1,338 border passes to local residents. In FY 2024/25 alone, 1,082 passes were issued, followed by 256 more in the current fiscal year, along with 648 renewals. The passes allow residents of Bhotkhola and Makalu to access Chinese markets for trade and employment. The border had been closed since early 2020 due to the pandemic. Although road construction is ongoing, the journey from the nearest roadhead still requires a two-day trek.
