Indian Railways handled 145 million tonnes of freight up to May 2026, recording a growth of 1.3% over the corresponding period last year despite global headwinds, the Ministry of Railways said in a statement on Monday, 1 June.
According to the ministry, the growth was supported by strong performance in iron ore, steel, fertilisers and Balance Other Goods segments.
The ministry said the increase in freight loading was achieved despite challenges arising from the ongoing geopolitical situation in West Asia and its indirect impact on logistics and supply chains.
Indian Railways remained focused on uninterrupted movement of essential commodities across the country through continuous operational monitoring and efficient use of assets.
Among major commodities, Balance Other Goods registered a growth of 16%.
Iron ore loading increased by 4.8%, while Pig Iron and Finished Steel loading grew by 3.5% over the corresponding period of the previous year.
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Fertiliser loading also recorded growth of 6.2%, reflecting Railways’ role in supporting key sectors of the economy.
Coal continued to form the largest share of railway freight traffic. Its loading increased by nearly 1% over the previous year.
To meet the requirements of thermal power plants and support energy security, Indian Railways gave priority to coal movement and closely monitored its transit across the network.
The ministry said Indian Railways has also intensified monitoring of domestic and EXIM container traffic to ensure seamless freight movement and support economic activity across regions.
On the passenger front, Indian Railways carried over 61 crore passengers during May 2026, compared to around 59 crore passengers in the corresponding period last year.
The growth was mainly driven by the Non-Suburban segment, which recorded a 7.4% increase. Passenger numbers in this segment rose from 28 crore to 30 crore.
To meet the seasonal rise in travel demand, Indian Railways operated a large number of Summer Special Trains across various routes.
Passenger convenience has also been supported through the expansion of modern train services.
Indian Railways is currently operating 164 Vande Bharat services, including the recently introduced Sleeper Vande Bharat service between Howrah and Kamakhya.
The number of Amrit Bharat services has reached 68, with 3 new services inaugurated during May 2026.
