Indian Railways freight loading recorded strong growth in July 2026, with total freight movement rising to 141.3 million tonnes from 129.7 million tonnes in July 2025. The 9 per cent increase was accompanied by higher passenger traffic, stronger freight revenue and increased transportation of essential commodities such as coal, iron ore, fertilizers and food grains.
According to data released by PIB Delhi on August 3, 2026, Indian Railways also carried 63.35 crore passengers during July 2026, compared to 62.19 crore passengers in the corresponding month last year. Growth was recorded across both suburban and non-suburban segments, reflecting continued demand for rail travel across the country.
Indian Railways Freight Loading Records Strong Growth Across Commodities
The increase in freight loading was driven by higher transportation of several key commodities during July 2026. Iron ore loading registered the highest growth, rising 22.2 per cent compared to July 2025. Coal loading increased by 11.5 per cent, while food grains loading also grew by 11.5 per cent during the same period.
Fertilizer movement recorded a growth of 12 per cent, while the category classified as balance other goods increased by 12.1 per cent year-on-year. The rise in freight movement reflects continued demand from infrastructure, manufacturing and agricultural sectors.
Indian Railways also increased domestic coal supplies to thermal power plants in response to higher demand from the energy sector. Coal supplied to power plants during July 2026 rose by 20 per cent compared to the corresponding month of the previous year.
The higher freight volumes contributed to stronger revenue generation. Freight revenue increased by ₹1,137 crore over July 2025, registering an 8 per cent growth during the month.
Among the Zonal Railways, East Central Railway and Eastern Railway recorded the highest growth in freight revenue at 33 per cent each. West Central Railway registered a 23 per cent increase, while South Eastern Railway posted growth of 10.33 per cent.
Passenger traffic also continued its upward trend during July 2026. Indian Railways carried 63.35 crore passengers during the month, compared to 62.19 crore passengers in July 2025. Growth was recorded in both suburban and long-distance travel segments, highlighting the continued importance of rail transport for daily commuters and intercity passengers.
The latest operational figures underline the scale of railway operations across freight and passenger services. Higher freight loading, increased movement of industrial and agricultural commodities and stronger revenue collection marked the performance of Indian Railways during July 2026.
