Paperman Media (New Delhi)- Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone in freight performance during 2025–26, setting a new record in cargo transport and further strengthening its role as the backbone of the nation’s logistics network. This achievement reflects sustained improvements in operational efficiency, capacity augmentation, and growing reliance on rail-based transportation by key sectors of the economy.
During 2025–26, Indian Railways carried a record 1670 Million Tonnes (MT) of freight, registering a growth of 3.25% over the previous year. This strong performance was complemented by a 4.56% increase in the number of wagons handled, which rose from 2,79,12,271 in 2024–25 to 2,91,86,475 in 2025–26. The steady rise in freight loading highlights the increasing demand for reliable, cost-effective, and efficient logistics solutions, positioning Railways as a preferred mode of transport for bulk commodities.
Fertilisers, Pig Iron, and Finished Steel Drive Impressive Growth
The growth has been largely driven by key sectors such as Fertilisers (13.49%), ‘Pig Iron and Steel’ (13.11%). This reflects both the rising demand for agricultural inputs across regions and the continued expansion of industrial activity, particularly in the steel sector.
Iron Ore and Cement Sustain Infrastructure Momentum
Core infrastructure commodities have also played a crucial role in sustaining this momentum. Iron Ore transportation increased by 6.74%, reaching 190.12 MT, while Cement loading grew by 4.74% to 157.17 MT. These trends indicate ongoing infrastructure development and construction activity across the country, where Railways continues to serve as a vital logistics partner.
Zone-wise loading performance during 2025–26 reflects broad-based growth across several regions, with South Western Railway (SWR) recording the highest increase of 14.89% over the previous year. Other zones demonstrating strong double-digit growth include North Central Railway (NCR) at 12.62%, East Coast Railway (ECoR) at 10.42%, and West Central Railway (WCR) at 10.06%. Additional zones that registered positive growth include Eastern Railway (ER) (0.78%), East Central Railway (ECR) (0.39%), North Eastern Railway (NER) (0.25%), Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) (6.75%), North Western Railway (NWR) (5.17%), South Central Railway (SCR) (2.59%), South East Central Railway (SECR) (3.18%), Southern Railway (SR) (1.10%), and Western Railway (WR) (3.57%). This widespread improvement across zones highlights balanced regional development and enhanced freight handling capacity across the Indian Railways network.
Railways Continues to Power India’s Economic Growth
This consistent growth in both freight loading and earnings underscores Indian Railways’ pivotal role in supporting India’s economic expansion. By offering a cost-efficient, reliable, and environmentally sustainable mode of transport, Railways continues to reduce logistics costs, ease congestion on road networks, and contribute to a greener and more efficient logistics ecosystem.
