NFR Strengthens Cross-Border Rail Link Between India and Nepal
The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has achieved a major milestone in India-Nepal rail connectivity with the successful operation of the first-ever direct commercial container freight train from Kolkata Port to Biratnagar Customs Yard in Nepal. The 40-wagon train carrying a consignment of canola completed its journey under the revised India-Nepal Rail Transit Protocol, marking a significant development in cross-border freight transportation.
NFR Chief Public Relations Officer Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said the historic movement will enhance trade efficiency between the two neighbouring countries by allowing direct rail transportation of bulk cargo without transshipment at the border. The new system is expected to reduce transit time, logistics costs, and cargo handling requirements, providing greater convenience for traders and businesses.
The achievement builds on the broad-gauge rail link between Jogbani in Bihar, India, and Biratnagar in Nepal, which was inaugurated in June 2023 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the former Prime Minister of Nepal. Following the signing of the revised Letter of Exchange in November 2025, direct commercial rail movement between the two countries has now become operational.
NFR officials said the development reflects the railway’s growing role in promoting international connectivity and strengthening regional trade networks. The initiative is expected to further boost bilateral commerce and economic cooperation between India and Nepal.
NFR will continue efforts to expand cross-border rail connectivity, improve freight logistics, and support efficient and reliable railway services. Meanwhile, the Agartala-Akhaura rail link project, being implemented by NFR, is also nearing completion and is expected to improve connectivity between Northeast India and Bangladesh.
