Indian Railways reports 5.4% Year-on-Year rise in freight loading in August

New Delhi, Sept 14: Indian Railways recorded a 5.4 per cent year-on-year rise in freight loading in August 2026, with cargo volumes reaching 137.9 million tonnes (mt).

The figure was higher than the 130.9 mt recorded in August 2025, according to the Ministry of Railways.

The increase in freight movement was supported by higher loading of key commodities such as coal, iron ore, steel, fertilisers and other goods.

The Railways said stronger freight movement is helping industries access reliable transportation while facilitating the movement of essential commodities across regions.

Iron ore loading rose 12.1 per cent year-on-year in August, recording the highest growth among the major commodities listed by the Railways. Clinker loading increased 10.4 per cent, while domestic container loading grew 9.2 per cent during the month.

Coal loading registered a 6 per cent increase, while finished steel loading rose 4.9 per cent. Mineral oil loading grew 3.1 per cent and fertiliser loading increased 1.6 per cent, while loading of other goods was up 8.2 per cent.

The Railways did not disclose the individual volumes of commodities transported during August. However, the overall increase in loading indicates higher freight movement across several segments of the national rail network.

Freight revenue increased 6.27 per cent year-on-year in August 2026, exceeding the growth recorded in overall freight loading. The increase came alongside continued efforts by the national transporter to strengthen freight infrastructure and connectivity.

The Railways commissioned five new Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs) during August. With these additions, the number of dedicated GCTs on the network has reached 149, aimed at improving last-mile connectivity for industries and facilitating cargo movement.

Passenger traffic also recorded growth during August, with total volumes on the national rail network rising by nearly 5 per cent year-on-year. Indian Railways carried 672.7 million passengers during the month, reflecting sustained demand for rail services.

Suburban rail travel grew 9 per cent year-on-year, with around 380 million short-distance passengers travelling during August. The Railways also regularised 14 Amrit Bharat services, providing additional affordable and comfortable travel options on several important routes.

Indian Railways stepped up special train operations as passenger demand increased during the festival season. The national transporter operated 144 trips of Rakshabandhan Special trains between 25-31 August 2026.

This was substantially higher than the 48 trips operated between August 8 and 14, 2025. The increase in special services came as the Railways sought to accommodate higher passenger demand during the festival period. (BVI)