First Direct Kolkata-Biratnagar Cargo Train Brings 40 Containers of Imported Mustard

The first direct cargo train from Kolkata Port arrived at Biratnagar in eastern Nepal on Monday, marking a major milestone in India-Nepal trade connectivity and the expansion of rail based cargo movement for Nepal's third country imports. Carrying 40 containers of mustard imported from a third country, the train reached the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Budhanagar in Biratnagar.

The service was flagged off from Kolkata on July 17 through the joint efforts of the Consulate General of Nepal in Kolkata, Kolkata Customs, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, and the Container Corporation of India Ltd (CONCOR). Officials described it as a significant step towards faster, more efficient and cost effective logistics under the India-Nepal Transit Treaty, which grants Nepal access to India's rail, road and inland waterway networks for trade with third countries.

Although the Bathnaha-Budhanagar cross border rail link was inaugurated nearly three years ago, this is the first time a cargo train has travelled directly from Kolkata to Biratnagar. Until now, Birgunj was Nepal's only rail linked gateway for third country imports. The cargo containers are equipped with an Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) to ensure secure and real time monitoring during transit.

Industrialists in eastern Nepal welcomed the development, saying the new corridor will reduce transportation time to nearly 24 hours, lower logistics costs, minimise port storage delays and improve supply chains for manufacturers. Morang Industry Association president Nandu Rathi said the service would provide major relief to industries by making imports faster and more competitive. Recent protocol amendments between India and Nepal have also expanded rail freight access, paving the way for smoother cross border cargo movement and deeper economic integration.