The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued notification amending the existing framework governing the transhipment of cargo to Nepal under the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS).
The amendment broadens and redefines the routes through which containerized cargo can move from Indian ports to various transit points in Nepal.
The updated regulation modifies Regulation 3 of the original Transhipment of Cargo to Nepal under Electronic Cargo Tracking System Regulations, 2019, expanding the entry and movement points at both Indian and Nepalese borders.
The original ECTS-based Nepal cargo transhipment regulation came into effect in 2019, enabling advanced digital tracking to replace the earlier documentation-heavy and escort-based supervision process. The latest amendment continues the Government’s push toward digitisation and logistics modernization.
According to the notification, the revised framework now applies to the movement of cargo from the ports of Kolkata, Haldia, and Visakhapatnam to the following transit points:
| Transit Point | Transport Mode | Route Details |
| Birgunj, Nepal | Rail | Direct movement by rail |
| Batnaha, India → Biratnagar, Nepal | Rail + Road | Rail up to Batnaha, onward movement by road |
| Biratnagar, Nepal | Rail | Direct movement by rail |
| Jogbani, India → Biratnagar, Nepal | Rail + Road | Rail up to Jogbani, onward movement by road |
About ECTS and Its Purpose
The Electronic Cargo Tracking System utilizes secured GPS-enabled tracking devices attached to containers or vehicles.
This allows customs authorities of both countries to monitor real-time cargo movement, prevent diversion or unauthorized offloading, speed up border clearances and reduce documentation and physical verification requirements.
Since Nepal is a landlocked nation, India serves as its primary trade transit corridor, making efficient transit systems critical for timely clearance of goods.
Notification Details
Notification No. 73/2025-Customs (N.T.)
Date: 04/11/2025
