First cargo train from Kolkata reaches Nepal’s Biratnagar with imported goods

A cargo train carrying 40 containers of imported mustard arrived in Nepal's Biratnagar directly from Kolkata Port for the first time. The rail service is expected to reduce transportation time and logistics costs for industrialists and importers in eastern Nepal.

Kathmandu: A cargo train arrived in Nepal’s Biratnagar directly from Kolkata Port on Monday for the first time, marking the launch of rail-based cargo movement from India to the eastern border city.

Carrying 40 containers of mustard imported from a third country, the train reached the Integrated Check Post at Budhanagar in Biratnagar, officials said.

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Under the bilateral trade and transit pact, India has granted Nepal access to its rail, road and water networks for international trade with third countries.

It is the first time that a cargo train has reached Biratnagar directly from Kolkata since the rail cargo service was inaugurated three years ago, the officials said.

Until now, Birgunj was the only Nepal-India border point handling rail cargo for goods imported from third countries.

An electronic cargo tracking system has been installed in the containers for safe transportation, they said.

The service became operational through the joint efforts of the Nepali Consulate General in Kolkata, Kolkata Customs and Ports, and the Container Corporation of India Limited.

With the extension of the rail cargo service to Biratnagar, industrialists and importers in eastern Nepal have welcomed the move, saying it would reduce transportation time and logistics costs.

The expansion of the rail cargo service to Biratnagar has brought great relief to industrialists and importers in the eastern region, Biratnagar-based Morang Industry Association president Nandu Rathi said.

As rail cargo can now reach Biratnagar from Kolkata Port within 24 hours, it will also reduce transportation time, he said.