Indian Railways achieved its highest-ever freight loading for October 2026, transporting 145 million tonnes during the month, against 134 million tonnes in October 2025, registering an increase of 8%.
The growth in freight volumes and earnings reflects increased transportation demand and the rail network’s role in supporting economic activity and strengthening the country’s logistics sector.
Food grains and coal drive freight growth
Food grains loading increased 26% during October, while domestic coal rose 16%. Balance other goods recorded growth of 11% and clinker increased 10%.
Domestic containers loading grew 6%, iron ore 5%, mineral oil 2% and finished steel 0.5%.
Domestic coal transportation steps up
To meet the increased requirement of power houses, Indian Railways supplied an average of 470 rakes of domestic coal per day during October 2026, compared with 393 rakes per day in the corresponding month last year. This represented an increase of 20%.
The growth in coal transportation reflects the railways’ efforts to meet the fuel requirements of power generation facilities.
Freight loading up 5% in FY27
The October performance builds on the growth recorded during the first seven months of FY27, from April to October.
During this period, Indian Railways loaded 979 million tonnes of freight, compared with 935 million tonnes in the corresponding period last year, registering an increase of 5%.
Passenger traffic also records growth
Indian Railways carried 65 crore passengers in October 2026, compared with 64 crore passengers in October 2025.
During April–October 2026, passenger traffic reached 444 crore, against 431 crore in the corresponding period last year. The non-suburban segment recorded growth of 4%, while suburban passenger traffic increased 2%.
Focus on capacity and efficiency
Indian Railways said the growth in freight loading reflects its efforts to strengthen logistics infrastructure and support economic activity. Capacity augmentation and improvements in operational efficiency are expected to further enhance the transportation network.