Indian Railways has launched the first-ever direct commercial container freight train from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard in Nepal, marking a major milestone in rail-based cross-border freight connectivity between the two countries.
The freight train, comprising 40 wagons carrying a consignment of canola, successfully completed its journey under the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, enabling seamless movement of containerised cargo from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar without the need for transshipment at the border.
According to the Ministry of Railways, the new direct rail freight service is expected to significantly reduce transit time, logistics costs and cargo handling while improving the efficiency, reliability and competitiveness of trade between India and Nepal.
The development has been made possible through the implementation of the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, which facilitates end-to-end rail transportation of freight between the two neighbouring countries.
The milestone builds on the broad-gauge railway link connecting Jogbani in India and Biratnagar in Nepal, which was inaugurated in June 2023 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the then Prime Minister of Nepal.
Following the signing of the revised Letter of Exchange (LoE) in November 2025, direct commercial rail movement to Biratnagar has now become operational, opening new avenues for bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
The Ministry said the direct freight service is expected to accelerate the movement of both import and export cargo by providing a faster, more economical and environmentally sustainable mode of transportation. By eliminating multiple handling points and improving supply chain efficiency, the service is expected to benefit exporters, importers, logistics operators and industries engaged in cross-border trade.
The successful operation also reflects Indian Railways’ continued emphasis on expanding international rail connectivity, strengthening freight logistics and supporting the government’s objective of improving the ease of doing business through modern transport infrastructure.
According to the Ministry, increased rail-based freight movement will contribute to lower logistics costs, improved cargo reliability and greener transportation while strengthening economic partnerships with neighbouring countries.
The launch of the first direct commercial container freight train to Nepal marks another significant step in Ministry’s efforts to build an integrated, efficient and future-ready freight network that supports regional trade, economic growth and seamless international connectivity.
