New Delhi, April 2026: Indian Railways has reported robust growth in both passenger traffic and freight operations for the fiscal year 2025–26, underscoring its role as a vital backbone of the nation’s transport and logistics network.
Passenger Traffic and Revenue Surge
During FY26, Indian Railways carried 741 crore passengers, marking a 3.5% increase from 716 crore in FY25. Passenger revenue also grew significantly, reaching approximately ₹80,000 crore, a 6% rise compared to the previous year. The figures highlight the growing reliance on rail travel across urban and rural India, reflecting both convenience and affordability for commuters.
Freight Operations Set New Records
Freight traffic hit a new milestone of 1,670 million tonnes (MT), up 3.25% from FY25, accompanied by a 4.5% increase in wagons handled, from 2.79 crore to 2.91 crore. This growth underscores Indian Railways’ efficiency and its critical role in delivering cost-effective logistics solutions for bulk commodities.
Key Commodities Driving Growth
Significant growth was recorded in sectors like fertilisers (13.5%) and pig iron & finished steel (13.1%), reflecting rising industrial and agricultural demand. Infrastructure-related commodities, including iron ore (6.7%) and cement (4.7%), also saw strong movement, supporting ongoing construction and development projects nationwide.
Balanced Regional Growth
Several railway zones contributed to this growth, with South Western Railway leading at 14.9%, followed by North Central (12.6%), East Coast (10.4%), and West Central (10.1%). Other zones also recorded positive gains, reflecting widespread regional development and improved freight-handling capabilities across the country.
Freight Revenue Highlights
Freight earnings reached approximately ₹1,77,754 crore, up 1.44% from FY25. Iron ore emerged as the top revenue contributor, followed by cement, pig iron & steel, fertilisers, food grains, and mineral oil, demonstrating the critical importance of railways in supporting industrial supply chains and trade.
Driving Connectivity and Economic Growth
Indian Railways’ achievements in FY26 highlight its dual role: ensuring safe, reliable mobility for millions of passengers and serving as an efficient logistics partner for industries. With consistent operational improvements and capacity expansion, Railways continues to be a key driver of economic growth and national connectivity.
