New Delhi: Indian Railways has achieved an all-time high in coal loading during October 2026, recording a 22.5% increase up to October 18 compared with the corresponding period last year. The improvement represents an additional 87 coal rakes dispatched per day over October 2025, strengthening efforts to maintain coal supplies to thermal power plants across the country.
According to the Ministry of Railways, the increase comes amid rising energy consumption, higher industrial production and increased demand for coal-based electricity generation. Deficient rainfall in some parts of the country has also contributed to the demand for coal-fired power.
The Railways is coordinating with the Ministries of Coal and Power to maintain the movement of coal and ensure adequate stocks at thermal power plants.
Daily Coal Rake Dispatches Rise in First Half of FY 2026-27
Indian Railways transported an average of 430 coal rakes per day to thermal power plants during the first half (H1) of the financial year 2026-27.
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This represented a 7.1% increase over the corresponding period of the previous financial year.
The monthly performance also showed an improvement in coal transportation. In September 2026, daily coal rake dispatches increased by 14% compared with September 2025.
Key figures reported by the Ministry of Railways include:
- 22.5% growth: Coal loading increased up to October 18, 2026, compared with the same period in October 2025.
- 87 additional rakes per day: The increase in daily coal rake dispatches compared with October 2025.
- 430 rakes daily: Average coal rake dispatches to thermal power plants during H1 of FY 2026-27.
- 7.1% growth: Increase in average daily dispatches during the first half of the financial year.
- 14% growth: Rise in daily coal rake dispatches in September 2026 compared with September 2025.
Coal Transportation Supports Thermal Power Generation
Coal remains an important fuel for electricity generation in India. Timely transportation from coal-producing areas to power plants is therefore essential to maintaining fuel availability and supporting uninterrupted electricity generation.
The Railways’ increased coal-loading capacity is intended to facilitate the movement of coal to thermal power stations as electricity demand rises.
According to the ministry, consistent coal evacuation has helped maintain steady coal stocks at thermal power plants. This supports power generation and helps the country meet its energy requirements.
Railways Coordinates with Coal and Power Ministries
The Ministry of Railways is working closely with the Ministry of Coal to improve coal evacuation and ensure efficient transportation. Coordination with the Ministry of Power is also aimed at sustaining supplies to thermal power plants and maintaining adequate fuel stocks.
The joint effort focuses on ensuring that coal transportation keeps pace with power-sector requirements.
With coal loading and daily rake dispatches registering year-on-year growth, Indian Railways is continuing its role in transporting fuel to power plants and supporting the country’s electricity supply system.
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