Indian Railways (IR) has operated the first direct commercial container freight train from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard in Nepal, marking a milestone in bilateral freight connectivity. The 40-wagon service carried a consignment of canola and ran under the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, enabling end-to-end movement without transhipment at the border. The operation is expected to reduce transit time, cut logistics costs and lower cargo handling while improving reliability for exporters and importers.

The facility builds on the broad-gauge rail link between Jogbani in India and Biratnagar in Nepal that opened in June 2023 and on the revised Letter of Exchange signed in November 2025 which paved the way for direct commercial movement. Authorities noted that the arrangement will make rail a more competitive and environmentally sustainable option for cross-border trade by reducing multiple handling points and improving supply chain efficiency. Logistics operators and industries engaged in bilateral trade stand to gain from faster door-to-door transit and lower operational complexity.

The introduction of the direct container service is part of IR's broader strategy to expand international freight corridors and strengthen regional economic ties with neighbouring countries. Officials have framed the initiative as supporting the Government's efforts to improve ease of doing business through modern transport infrastructure and integrated freight logistics. Increased rail movement is anticipated to contribute to lower overall logistics expenditure, better cargo reliability and greener transportation outcomes.

By operationalising commercial rail connectivity to Biratnagar, authorities expect new opportunities for trade growth, enhanced supply chain resilience and greater integration of regional markets. The move is intended to foster stronger economic partnerships while supporting exporters, importers and logistics stakeholders through more predictable transit schedules. Continued focus on international rail links will inform future enhancements to the freight network and cross-border cooperation.