40-wagon freight train from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar operated under revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol

Direct rail freight service reduced travel time, logistics costs and cargo handling, thereby strengthening India-Nepal trade relations

Lucknow, 28 July (HS): Indian Railways has achieved a major milestone in strengthening India-Nepal freight connectivity by running the first direct commercial container freight train from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard in Nepal. The 40-wagon train, carrying a consignment of canola, completed its journey under the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, marking the beginning of a new chapter in rail-based cross-border freight movement.

This successful operation has enabled direct rail transportation of containerized cargo from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar without transshipment at the border. This new arrangement is expected to significantly reduce transit time, logistics costs, and cargo handling, while also improving the efficiency, reliability, and competitiveness of cross-border trade between the two neighboring countries. This achievement was made possible by the implementation of the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, which facilitates seamless end-to-end rail transportation of goods between the two countries.

This achievement builds on the broad-gauge rail link between Jogbani (India) and Biratnagar (Nepal), which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, and the then Prime Minister of Nepal in June 2023. Following the signing of the revised Letter of Exchange (LoE) in November 2025, direct commercial rail service to Biratnagar has now commenced, opening up new opportunities for bilateral trade and economic cooperation.

This direct freight service is expected to significantly boost the movement of import and export goods, as it is a faster, cheaper, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. By reducing multiple handling points and improving supply chain efficiencies, this initiative will benefit exporters, importers, logistics operators, and industries involved in cross-border trade.

This achievement also reflects Indian Railways' continued focus on enhancing 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 reduce logistics costs, increase cargo reliability and make transportation more environmentally friendly, while also fostering stronger economic partnerships with neighboring countries.

The successful operation of the first direct commercial container freight train to Nepal is another significant milestone in Indian Railways' efforts to build an integrated, efficient and future-ready freight network that supports regional trade, economic growth and seamless international connectivity.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi