India's first direct commercial container freight train reaches Nepal, opening new chapter in cross-border trade and connectivity
New Delhi, July 29
The Indian Railways on Tuesday achieved a major milestone in strengthening India-Nepal freight connectivity with the successful operation of the first-ever direct commercial container freight train from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard, Nepal.
According to the Ministry of Railways, the train, comprising 40 wagons carrying a consignment of canola, completed its journey under the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, marking a new chapter in rail-based cross-border freight movement.
The successful operation enables direct rail movement of containerised cargo from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar without transhipment at the border. The new arrangement is expected to substantially reduce transit time, logistics costs and cargo handling while improving the efficiency, reliability and competitiveness of cross-border trade between the two neighbouring countries.
The milestone has been made possible through the implementation of the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, which facilitates seamless end-to-end rail transportation of freight between the two countries.
The achievement builds upon the broad-gauge rail link between Jogbani (India) and Biratnagar (Nepal), inaugurated in June 2023 by the Prime Minister of India, 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 opportunities for bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
As per the release, the direct freight service is expected to provide a significant boost to the movement of import and export cargo by offering a faster, more economical and environmentally sustainable mode of transportation. By reducing multiple handling points and improving supply chain efficiency, the initiative will benefit exporters, importers, logistics operators and industries engaged in cross-border trade.
The milestone also reflects Indian Railways' continued focus on expanding international rail connectivity, strengthening freight logistics and supporting the Government's vision of improving ease of doing business through modern transport infrastructure. Increased rail-based freight movement will contribute to lower logistics costs, improved cargo reliability and greener transportation while fostering stronger economic partnerships with neighbouring countries.
The successful operation of the first direct commercial container freight train to Nepal marks another important achievement in Indian Railways' efforts to build an integrated, efficient and future-ready freight network that supports regional trade, economic growth and seamless international connectivity.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Impressive infrastructure development. India's focus on strengthening ties with Nepal through rail connectivity is a smart geopolitical move. This will not only benefit trade but also deepen people-to-people connections. Hope to see similar initiatives with Bangladesh and Myanmar soon.
Finally! I remember reading about the Jogbani-Biratnagar rail link inauguration last year. Seeing it operational with actual cargo trains feels like a dream come true for cross-border trade. The environmental benefits of rail over road transport are also a huge plus. Let's hope this reduces the truck congestion at the border. 🚆🇮🇳🇳🇵
Great step forward, but I hope the Indian Railways also focuses on maintaining the tracks and ensuring timely schedules. Infrastructure is one thing, but operational efficiency is another. We've seen many projects announced but follow-through is patchy. Let's see how the service performs over the next few months before celebrating too much.
This is a win-win for both countries. Nepal gets cheaper access to Kolkata Port for its third-country trade, and India strengthens its role as a regional logistics hub. The reduction in multiple handling points means less damage to cargo too. Well done, Indian Railways! 🇮🇳
It's encouraging to see India investing in regional rail connectivity. This initiative aligns well with the 'Neighbourhood First' policy. The environmental angle is particularly noteworthy — shifting freight from road to rail reduces carbon emissions significantly. I also appreciate how this builds on the broad-gauge link inaugurated last year. Good to see follow-through on commitments.
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