Indian Railways Witnesses Freight and Passenger Growth in June

Indian Railways reported solid operational gains in June, posting simultaneous growth in freight loading and passenger traffic across key segments. The national transporter loaded 142.21 million tonnes of freight during the month, up 4% from 136.71 million tonnes in June last year, while passenger numbers rose to 638.1 million from 623.7 million a year earlier, marking 2.3% growth in overall ridership.

According to the railway ministry, higher freight loading, increased passenger traffic and continued augmentation of passenger services highlight Indian Railways’ sustained efforts to support economic growth, strengthen logistics and expand convenient travel options nationwide. Freight earnings also improved, with the railways generating additional revenue of about ₹430 crore in June, a 3% increase over June 2025.

Several major commodity groups contributed to the freight performance, signalling robust demand from core sectors of the economy. Fertilizer loading grew 19.1%, balance other goods 17.3%, iron ore 9.4%, domestic coal 4.9%, total coal 3.6% and clinker 7.2% during the month, underscoring the role of the rail network in supporting industrial activity and infrastructure development.

The June results build on steady momentum in the first quarter of FY27 (April–June), when Indian Railways loaded 419.08 million tonnes of freight, up from 413.05 million tonnes in the same period of FY26. Across the quarter, iron ore loading increased by 7.44%, clinker by 6.54% and balance other goods by 12.16% compared with the previous year, pointing to broad‑based growth in commodity flows.

To meet higher electricity demand during the extended summer season, Indian Railways ramped up domestic coal transportation to thermal power stations. Coal supplies to power plants in June were 7% higher than a year ago, helping support uninterrupted power generation and grid stability across the country.

Passenger traffic also showed positive trends, particularly in the non‑suburban segment that covers short‑ and long‑distance journeys. Non‑suburban passenger numbers rose 3.9% in June, from 289 million to 300.4 million, while the suburban segment, which includes daily commuter services, registered 0.9% growth, increasing from 334.6 million to 337.7 million passengers.

Alongside higher volumes, Indian Railways is advancing a broad modernisation drive in passenger services, including the expansion of premium and semi‑high‑speed train offerings. The number of Vande Bharat services has risen to 164, including the newly introduced Vande Bharat Sleeper service between Howrah and Kamakhya, while Amrit Bharat train services now stand at 72, with four new services launched in June to bolster affordable and modern long‑distance connectivity.

The ministry said that the continued growth in freight loading and passenger traffic reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to efficient logistics, reliable passenger services and modern rail infrastructure. It added that the railway system remains focused on supporting India’s economic expansion through capacity augmentation, improved operational efficiency and customer‑centric initiatives, while maintaining safe, dependable and passenger‑friendly transport services across the country.