1st direct freight train opens new India-Nepal chapter

NEW DELHI: In a new chapter for India-Nepal rail connectivity, the first-ever direct commercial container freight train - carrying canola oil in 40 tank wagons - completed its journey from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard in Nepal last week. In a statement, railway ministry said the new arrangement is expected to substantially reduce transit time, logistics costs and cargo handling, while improving efficiency, reliability and competitiveness of cross-border trade. The achievement builds upon the broad-gauge rail link between Jogbani (India) and Biratnagar (Nepal) inaugurated in June 2023. "Following the signing of the revised Letter of Exchange (LoE) in Nov 2025, direct commercial rail movement to Biratnagar has now become operational, opening new opportunities for bilateral trade and economic cooperation," it said. The direct freight service is expected to provide a significant boost to the movement of import and export cargo by offering a faster, more economical and environmentally sustainable mode of transportation. It reduces multiple handling points improving supply chain efficiency. [Image text:] WDG6G 69212 ENTRS ATFCACOICE OLINCY