Indian Railways coal loading rises 22.5% in October

Indian Railways has recorded its highest-ever coal loading for the period up to 18 October 2026, with coal loading increasing 22.5% compared with the corresponding period last year, according to the Ministry of Railways.

Coal loading during the period rose by an average of 87 rakes per day compared with October 2025, as Indian Railways stepped up efforts to ensure a reliable supply of coal to thermal power plants across the country.

During the first half of FY 2026-27, Indian Railways dispatched an average of 430 coal rakes per day to thermal power plants, registering a 7.1% increase over the corresponding period last year. Coal rake dispatches also rose 14% per day in September 2026 compared with September 2025.

The increase in coal transportation comes amid rising energy consumption and higher demand for coal-based power generation, driven by increased industrial production and deficient rainfall in some parts of the country.

Consistent coal evacuation has helped maintain steady coal stocks at thermal power plants, supporting reliable electricity generation, the ministry said.

Indian Railways is coordinating with the Ministry of Coal to improve coal evacuation and with the Ministry of Power to sustain transportation and supply. The coordination aims to maintain adequate coal stocks at thermal power plants and meet the country's energy requirements.