Indian Railways freight loading rises 6.14% in September

Indian Railways recorded a 6.14% year-on-year increase in freight loading in September 2026, with volumes rising to 135.35 million tonnes from 127.52 million tonnes in the corresponding month last year, according to data released by the Ministry of Railways.

Growth was recorded across several major commodity segments, led by food grains, which registered a 25% increase. Clinker loading grew by 20%, domestic container traffic by 10% and coal by 9%. Balance Other Goods recorded 8.2% growth, followed by mineral oil at 6%, finished steel at 5.5% and iron ore at 5.2%.

Cumulative freight loading rises 4.1%
During April–September 2026, Indian Railways loaded 833.7 million tonnes of freight, registering 4.1% growth over the corresponding period last year. Freight revenue during the six-month period increased by 3.7%.

The September figures reflect growth across key freight categories, including food grains, coal, containers, steel and iron ore, highlighting the continued role of rail transportation in moving essential commodities and industrial cargo across India.

Coal supply to power plants increases
Indian Railways increased domestic coal transportation to power houses during September. The average number of coal rakes supplied per day rose to 443, compared with 397 in September 2025, marking an 11.6% increase.

Freight revenue also increased during the month, rising by 12.66 billion compared with September last year, representing growth of 9.3%.