India, July 29 -- Indian Railways has marked a historic milestone in regional connectivity with the first-ever direct commercial container freight train from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard, Nepal.

Key Highlights

- Cargo: 40 wagons carrying canola.

- Protocol: Operated under the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, enabling seamless end-to-end rail movement without border transshipment.

- Route: Leveraging the Jogbani-Biratnagar broad-gauge link, inaugurated in June 2023.

Strategic Impact

- Reduced transit time & logistics costs by eliminating multiple handling points.

- Boosts reliability & competitiveness of cross-border trade.

- Supports exporters, importers, logistics operators, and industries engaged in India-Nepal commerce.

- Aligns with India's vision of ease of doing business and greener, more efficient freight transport.

Future Outlook

- Strengthens bilateral trade and economic cooperation.

- Encourages environmentally sustainable freight movement.

- Positions Indian Railways as a regional logistics leader, expanding international rail connectivity.

This achievement is more than just a train journey-it's a symbol of......

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Travel Media.