India Launches First Direct Commercial Freight Train to Nepal

The first direct commercial container freight train from India to Nepal reached the Biratnagar Customs Yard in Nepal on 20 July 2026. The train was operated by the Container Corporation of India Limited and carried 1,225 tonnes of canola grains in 40 wagons from Kolkata Port.

India-Nepal Rail Transit Framework

The movement became possible after the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol was operationalised. A Letter of Exchange amending the Protocol to the India-Nepal Treaty of Transit was signed on 13 November 2025.

Jogbani-Biratnagar Broad-Gauge Link

The service uses the broad-gauge rail link between Jogbani in Bihar and Biratnagar in Nepal. The link was jointly inaugurated in June 2023 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then Prime Minister of Nepal Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Customs Points and Cargo Movement

Before this service, Birgunj was the only customs point in Nepal equipped to receive third-country rail cargo from Indian ports. The direct freight train removes the need for transshipment at the border and is linked with lower cargo handling requirements.

Important Facts for Exams

• Container Corporation of India Limited, or CONCOR, is a Government of India enterprise under the Ministry of Railways.
• The India-Nepal Treaty of Transit governs transit facilities for Nepal through Indian territory and ports.
• Biratnagar and Birgunj are major customs points for Nepal’s trade with third countries.
• Broad-gauge rail lines in South Asia generally use a track gauge of 1,676 mm.

Trade and Logistics Context

The direct rail freight service is expected to reduce logistics costs by 20% to 30%. It is also intended to improve bilateral commerce and regional connectivity between India and Nepal.