Indian Railways records 8.5% growth in freight loading in August 2025

Indian Railways reported strong freight performance in August 2025, with monthly loading rising 8.5% to 130.9 million tonnes (MT), compared to 120.6 MT in the same month last year. Freight earnings for the month touched an all-time high of ₹14,100 crore.

For the April–August 2025 period, cumulative freight loading reached 673.64 MT, up from 653.22 MT in the corresponding period of FY24. Officials said growth came despite rationalisation of coal movement due to extended monsoon conditions and moderating power demand. A senior official highlighted a 31% increase in “Balance Other Goods,” reflecting diversification in cargo and limited impact from the ongoing US tariff-related disruptions.

Commodity-wise, August performance was led by a 9% increase in coal, 22% in finished steel, 4.5% in mineral oil, 6% in domestic containers, and 5% in EXIM containers (exports and imports).