Indian Railways posts 4.2% rise in November freight loading

Indian Railways reported steady growth in freight movement in November, with loading rising 4.2% to 135.7 million tonnes, up from 130.2 million tonnes in the same month last year, according to an official statement issued on Tuesday.

The increase was supported by strong performance across several major commodity groups. Freight movement of pig iron and finished steel grew by 16%, iron ore by 9.7%, fertilisers by 10.6%, containers by 6.8%, and other miscellaneous goods by 23.6%, signalling broad-based expansion in cargo volumes.

From April to November, Indian Railways achieved a cumulative loading of 1,070.8 million tonnes, marking a 3.3% increase over the previous year. Notably, the Railways has transported more freight in the first eight months of FY 2025–26 than it did during the entire 2013–14 fiscal, when total annual loading stood at 1,055 million tonnes.

The sustained rise in freight movement is helping strengthen domestic supply chains and support both internal and external trade. Rail continues to offer a cost-effective logistics option, with transport via rail costing nearly 50% less than by road, resulting in meaningful savings for industries and more competitive operations.

The shift of bulk cargo from road to rail is also delivering environmental benefits, the statement noted. Rail transport reduces emissions, eases highway congestion, and gives industries—including MSMEs—a greener, more reliable logistics pathway. This aligns with India’s long-term commitment to Net Zero Carbon Emission goals and reinforces the Railways’ role in advancing sustainable growth.

“With India progressing toward its target of becoming a $5 trillion economy, efficient and scalable logistics are essential,” the statement said. Indian Railways is moving goods at record-high volumes while simultaneously transporting over two crore passengers every day, consolidating its position as the backbone of the country’s transport network.