Indian Railways has introduced its first assured transit-time container train service on a pilot basis between Delhi and Kolkata, marking a significant milestone in the country’s freight transportation and logistics sector. The new service aims to provide businesses with reliable and time-bound cargo movement while enhancing the efficiency of rail-based logistics.
The container train will operate between the Inland Container Depot (ICD) at Tughlakabad in Delhi and the CTCS terminal in Kolkata through key logistics hubs including Agra and Kanpur. The service offers a guaranteed transit time of 120 hours, helping businesses plan their supply chains with greater certainty and reducing dependency on road transportation.
According to Indian Railways, the train will run twice a week, departing every Wednesday and Saturday. The initiative is expected to benefit industries dealing with time-sensitive cargo by ensuring predictable delivery schedules and improved operational efficiency.
The service also supports India’s sustainability goals by encouraging a shift from road freight to rail transport, which can help lower carbon emissions and reduce traffic congestion. Industry experts believe the move could strengthen the country’s logistics network and improve the competitiveness of rail freight services.
With this launch, Indian Railways and CONCOR have reinforced their commitment to customer-centric, reliable and environmentally responsible logistics solutions, paving the way for a more efficient freight transportation ecosystem in India.
