New Delhi: Indian Railways continued its strong operational performance in July 2026, registering healthy growth across both freight and passenger segments, with higher freight loading, increased passenger traffic and revenue generation. The national transporter loaded 141.3 million tonnes (MT) of freight during the month, marking a 9 per cent year-on-year increase over July 2025, while higher movement of key commodities and rising passenger numbers reinforced its critical role in supporting India’s economy, logistics network and energy security.
Freight Loading Maintains Strong Growth
According to the Ministry of Railways, Indian Railways loaded 141.3 MTof freight in July 2026, compared to 129.7 MT during the corresponding month last year.
The 9 per cent growth reflects sustained demand across core sectors of the economy and continued improvements in freight logistics, operational efficiency and network capacity.
Higher Commodity Movement Supports Economy
Several key commodities registered robust year-on-year growth, indicating rising industrial and agricultural activity across the country.
The major increases included:
- Iron ore: Up 22.2%
- Fertilizers: Up 12%
- Balance other goods: Up 12.1%
- Coal: Up 11.5%
- Food grains: Up 11.5%
To meet growing electricity demand, Indian Railways also increased domestic coal supply to thermal power plants by 20 per cent compared to July 2025, strengthening the country’s energy security.
Freight Revenue Continues to Rise
Higher freight movement translated into stronger revenue performance during the month.
Freight revenue increased by ₹1,137 crore over July 2025, registering an 8 per cent growth.
Among the Zonal Railways, the highest freight revenue growth was recorded by:
- East Central Railway: 33%
- Eastern Railway: 33%
- West Central Railway: 23%
- South Eastern Railway: 10.33%
Passenger Traffic Also Increases
Passenger traffic also recorded steady growth during July 2026.
Indian Railways carried 63.35 crore passengers, compared to 62.19 crore during the same month last year. Growth was recorded across both suburban and non-suburban services, reflecting the increasing preference for rail travel and continued improvements in service delivery.
Focus on Logistics, Infrastructure and Service Delivery
The Ministry said Indian Railways remains committed to strengthening freight logistics, enhancing passenger services and expanding modern railway infrastructure.
Officials attributed the positive performance to sustained improvements in operational efficiency, capacity augmentation and customer-centric initiatives. The continued growth in freight loading, revenue and passenger traffic underscores Indian Railways’ vital contribution to economic growth, industrial supply chains, energy security and reliable mobility across the country.
