India has launched its first-ever direct commercial container freight train to Nepal, marking a major milestone in cross-border connectivity and regional trade. Carrying 1,225 tonnes of canola across 40 wagons, the train travelled directly from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard without any cargo transshipment at the border.Enabled by the revised India–Nepal Rail Transit Protocol and the Jogbani–Biratnagar broad-gauge railway line, the new freight corridor is expected to reduce transit time, cut logistics costs, and strengthen bilateral commerce.The development comes as India and Nepal continue rebuilding ties through infrastructure, connectivity and economic cooperation after years of diplomatic challenges.
