Delhi Launches First Container Train Ensuring 120 Hour Transit Kolkata
Indian Railways has inaugurated its first assured transit time container train service between Delhi and Kolkata, signalling a major advancement in India’s logistics infrastructure. The pilot service operates from the ICD Tughlakabad terminal in Delhi to the CTCS Kolkata, via Agra and Kanpur terminals managed by the Container Corporation of India Limited (CONCOR). Designed to guarantee a fixed transit time of 120 hours, this initiative promises reliability for time-sensitive cargo.
The service, which runs bi-weekly every Wednesday and Saturday, offers businesses a competitive and environmentally responsible alternative to road transport. Officials highlighted that this move encourages a modal shift from road to rail, reducing carbon emissions and supporting India’s broader sustainability goals. Experts also noted that prioritising rail for container shipments could ease congestion on highways and improve efficiency in the national supply chain.
“By offering assured transit times, we are setting new standards in customer-centric logistics,” an Indian Railways spokesperson said. “This initiative not only strengthens reliability for freight movement but also contributes to green logistics by reducing emissions from road transport.” The service caters to industries requiring consistent delivery schedules, providing advantages such as reduced delays, priority handling, and a more predictable supply chain.
CONCOR, responsible for container operations across India, will manage terminal handling at key points along the route. The partnership underscores the government’s commitment to modernising freight corridors and integrating technology-enabled solutions to enhance operational efficiency. Officials emphasised that the pilot project will be closely monitored for performance, and insights gained will guide the expansion of similar services across other high-demand corridors.
Logistics analysts highlighted that assured transit services could transform the Indian freight landscape. “Time-bound rail solutions are crucial for perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce logistics,” said an expert from a leading transport think tank. “It demonstrates how rail infrastructure can be leveraged to achieve sustainability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness simultaneously.”
The Delhi-Kolkata corridor is a strategic link for freight movement, connecting northern and eastern markets. With the introduction of this service, Indian Railways and CONCOR aim to reduce dependence on long-haul trucking, lower operational costs, and ensure timely deliveries, all while aligning with India’s net-zero commitments.This launch is part of a broader vision to modernise freight transport, improve efficiency, and promote sustainable logistics solutions in line with the country’s environmental and economic priorities.
