KOLKATA : Container Corporation of India Ltd. (CONCOR) has achieved another significant milestone in cross-border logistics by flagging off the much-awaited direct EXIM container train from Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata to NCY Biratnagar, Nepal via ICY Jogbani on July 17, 2026. The new service reinforces CONCOR’s pioneering role in enhancing container rail connectivity between India and Nepal while facilitating seamless cross-border trade.
The inaugural train consists of 40 forty-foot containers carrying farmer-dressed bulk canola grain imported from Fremantle, Australia, moving under the aegis of Maersk Line. The dedicated rail service provides a faster, more reliable and cost-effective multimodal logistics solution for EXIM cargo destined for Nepal, significantly reducing transit time and improving supply chain efficiency.
The successful launch of the service was made possible through the coordinated efforts of Indian Railways, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Customs authorities, Maersk Line, Inland World Logistics and Transecure (ECTS), highlighting the importance of collaborative logistics infrastructure in facilitating international trade.
The direct rail connectivity is expected to provide exporters, importers and logistics stakeholders with an efficient transportation corridor, reducing dependence on road movement while promoting sustainable freight transportation. It also strengthens the multimodal logistics ecosystem connecting Indian ports with neighbouring countries.
The initiative marks another important step in deepening India–Nepal economic cooperation by improving regional connectivity and supporting uninterrupted cargo movement. By expanding dedicated container rail services to Nepal, CONCOR continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing regional trade integration, boosting supply chain resilience and supporting the Government of India’s vision of developing efficient, seamless and globally competitive logistics networks.
The new service is expected to further strengthen bilateral trade, improve ease of doing business, and create greater opportunities for cross-border commerce between India and Nepal while reinforcing Kolkata Port’s position as a key gateway for Nepal-bound EXIM cargo.
