Freight loading reaches 978.78 million tonnes during April–October 2026, supported by strong growth in food grains, domestic coal and container transportation.
Highlights
- Indian Railways transported a record 145.07 million tonnes of freight in October 2026.
- Freight loading increased from 133.93 million tonnes in October 2025.
- Food grains transportation recorded 26.3% growth.
- Domestic coal loading increased by 16%, while coal supply to power plants rose 19.5%.
- Domestic container loading grew 6.3%, while other goods registered 11% growth.
- Cumulative freight loading reached 978.78 million tonnes during April–October 2026.
Indian Railways Achieves Record Freight Loading in October 2026
New Delhi, November 4, 2026: Indian Railways has achieved its highest-ever freight loading for October, transporting 145.07 million tonnes of goods during October 2026. This represents an increase of approximately 8.3% compared with 133.93 million tonnes recorded in the same month last year.
According to data released by the Ministry of Railways on Wednesday, the growth reflects stronger demand for freight transportation across several key sectors, including coal, food grains, containers and other commodities.
Food Grains and Coal Drive Freight Growth
Food grains emerged as one of the fastest-growing freight categories, registering a 26.3% increase in loading compared with October 2025. The growth highlights the important role of Indian Railways in transporting agricultural commodities across the country.
Domestic coal loading also witnessed strong momentum, increasing by 16% year-on-year. Meanwhile, coal transportation to power plants recorded an even sharper increase of 19.5%.
Higher coal movement is particularly significant for India’s electricity sector, where thermal power plants depend heavily on reliable railway transportation to maintain fuel supplies and support uninterrupted electricity generation.
Container Transportation Records Growth
Apart from traditional bulk commodities, Indian Railways reported positive growth in container transportation.
Domestic container loading increased by 6.3% during October 2026, reflecting continued demand for rail-based logistics services. The balance other goods category also recorded an 11% increase compared with the corresponding month last year.
The growth across multiple freight categories indicates the expanding role of rail transportation in India’s supply chain and logistics network.
April–October Freight Loading Reaches 978.78 Million Tonnes
Indian Railways also reported strong cumulative freight performance during the first seven months of the financial year 2026–27.
Total freight loading reached 978.78 million tonnes between April and October 2026, surpassing the corresponding period’s performance in the previous financial year.
The Ministry of Railways said higher freight loading and increased freight earnings reflect the national transporter’s efforts to support economic growth and strengthen India’s logistics sector.
The latest figures underline the importance of Indian Railways in facilitating industrial activity, agricultural distribution, energy security and the movement of essential commodities across the country.
