In a significant step towards strengthening cross-border trade, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has successfully operated the first direct commercial container freight train from Kolkata Port to the Biratnagar Customs Yard in Nepal. The initiative marks a major milestone in enhancing connectivity between India and Nepal.

The freight train, comprising 40 container wagons carrying canola consignments, completed its journey under the revised India–Nepal Rail Transit Protocol. The new system eliminates the need for transshipment at the border, enabling seamless and uninterrupted rail movement of goods between the two countries.

NFR Chief Public Relations Officer Kapinjal Kishore Sharma stated that the development signifies the operational rollout of the revised transit framework. He described it as a major step towards improving cross-border freight transportation and logistics efficiency.

Railway officials noted that the direct service is expected to significantly cut transit time, reduce logistics costs, and minimise cargo handling. These improvements are likely to enhance overall efficiency and reliability in bilateral trade operations.

The initiative builds upon the broad-gauge rail link between Jogbani in Bihar and Biratnagar in Nepal, which was inaugurated in June 2023 by Narendra Modi and Nepal’s then Prime Minister. The revised Letter of Exchange signed in November 2025 paved the way for the commencement of direct commercial rail services.

NFR’s expanding role in regional connectivity

Sharma emphasised that the launch underscores NFR’s growing role in strengthening international rail connectivity and facilitating smoother regional trade. He added that the railway zone remains committed to improving freight logistics and supporting the expanding economic partnership between India and Nepal.

Highlighting future developments, Sharma said the Agartala–Akhaura rail link connecting India and Bangladesh is nearing completion. The project is expected to further boost connectivity between the Northeastern region and Bangladesh, enhancing regional trade and transport integration.

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