India’s first direct container freight train reaches Nepal

Indian Railways has achieved a major milestone in cross-border freight connectivity with the successful operation of the first direct commercial container freight train from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard in Nepal.

The 40-wagon freight train, carrying a consignment of canola, completed its journey under the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, enabling containerised cargo to move directly from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar without transshipment at the border.

The new direct rail service is expected to reduce transit time, logistics costs and cargo handling while improving the efficiency and reliability of freight movement between India and Nepal. By eliminating additional handling and transfer points, the service could provide a more seamless and cost-effective transport option for importers, exporters and logistics operators.

The milestone builds on the broad-gauge rail link between Jogbani in India and Biratnagar in Nepal, which was inaugurated in June 2023. Following the signing of the revised Letter of Exchange (LoE) in November 2025, direct commercial container movement to Biratnagar has now become operational.

The service is expected to support the movement of both import and export cargo while strengthening trade links and economic cooperation between the two neighbouring countries. Rail transport could also offer a more environmentally sustainable alternative for cross-border cargo movement by reducing dependence on road-based transportation.

The launch reflects Indian Railways’ broader focus on expanding international rail connectivity, improving freight logistics and supporting ease of doing business through integrated transport infrastructure.

With the first direct commercial container train now reaching Nepal, the Kolkata–Biratnagar rail corridor is expected to play a larger role in reducing logistics barriers, improving supply chain efficiency and supporting the growth of bilateral trade between India and Nepal.