Biratnagar: A cargo train carrying industrial raw materials from Kolkata, India, arrived today at the Integrated Checkpoint (ICP) in Biratnagar, marking a significant milestone in Nepal's cross-border trade and logistics.

The train, which departed Kolkata on July 17 with raw materials for edible oil production destined for Swastik Oil, was welcomed by Biratnagar Customs Office Chief Umesh Shrestha, along with industrialists, traders, and local residents.

The service has begun under the Nepal–India Transit Agreement, allowing goods imported from third countries to be transported directly by rail from the Indian Customs Yard in Jogbani to the Nepal Customs Yard at Budhanagar, Bhediyari, Biratnagar-18.

Before its departure, the train was officially flagged off in Kolkata by Nepali Consul General Ishwor Raj Poudel, officials from Kolkata Customs, Kolkata Port, and the Indian Container Corporation Limited.

Once fully operational, the rail service will be capable of transporting 45 containers (40-foot each) to Biratnagar in a single trip, significantly increasing cargo handling capacity.

Business leaders believe the railway service will provide a safer, faster, and more cost-effective alternative to road transport. Goods are expected to reach Biratnagar from Kolkata in approximately 24 hours, reducing transportation costs and improving supply chain efficiency.

Industrialists in eastern Nepal have welcomed the development, noting that such rail cargo services were previously available only through Birgunj. The arrival of the cargo train is expected to strengthen industrial activity, enhance trade connectivity, and improve logistics for businesses across the region.