In a landmark development for India–Nepal rail connectivity, Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has successfully facilitated the first-ever direct commercial container freight train from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard in Nepal. The train, comprising 40 wagons carrying a consignment of canola, completed its journey seamlessly under the revised India–Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, marking a new era in cross-border freight transportation.
The successful operation represents the operationalisation of the revised transit framework, enabling uninterrupted rail movement of bulk cargo from Kolkata Port directly to Biratnagar without the need for transshipment at the international border. The new arrangement is expected to significantly reduce transit time, lower logistics costs, minimise cargo handling and enhance overall trade efficiency between India and Nepal.
The milestone builds upon the broad-gauge rail link connecting Jogbani in India with Biratnagar in Nepal, which was inaugurated in June 2023 by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, and the then Prime Minister of Nepal. The signing of the revised Letter of Exchange (LoE) in November 2025 paved the way for direct commercial rail operations, which have now become a reality with this inaugural freight movement.
This achievement underscores the growing role of Northeast Frontier Railway in strengthening international rail connectivity and facilitating seamless cross-border trade. By providing a more efficient and reliable freight transport system, the initiative is expected to enhance bilateral commerce, improve supply chain efficiency and reinforce India’s commitment to expanding regional connectivity through modern railway infrastructure.
Building on this historic accomplishment, Northeast Frontier Railway will continue to strengthen cross-border rail operations, enhance freight logistics and support the growing trade and economic partnership between India and Nepal by delivering efficient, reliable and customer-focused railway services.
