Indian Railways posts 4% freight growth, carries 63.8 crore passengers in June
New Delhi, July 2 (TNT): Indian Railways recorded steady operational growth in June 2026, registering higher freight loading and passenger traffic, driven by increased movement of coal, fertilisers and iron ore, along with expansion of premium passenger services.
According to official data released on Thursday, Indian Railways loaded 142.21 million tonnes of freight during June, up 4 per cent from 136.71 million tonnes in the corresponding month last year.
Freight earnings also increased by 3 per cent, generating an additional ₹430 crore compared with June 2025.
Among key commodities, fertiliser loading registered the highest growth at 19.1 per cent, followed by Balance & Other Goods (17.3 per cent), iron ore (9.4 per cent), clinker (7.2 per cent), domestic coal (4.9 per cent) and total coal (3.6 per cent).
During the first quarter of FY2026-27 (April-June), Indian Railways handled 419.08 million tonnes of freight, compared with 413.05 million tonnes during the corresponding period of the previous financial year.
The quarter witnessed growth in iron ore loading (7.44 per cent), clinker (6.54 per cent) and Balance & Other Goods (12.16 per cent).
To meet the increased demand for electricity during the extended summer season, Indian Railways transported 7 per cent more domestic coal to thermal power stations in June compared with the same month last year.
Passenger traffic also registered an increase during the month.
Indian Railways carried 63.81 crore passengers in June 2026, up from 62.37 crore in June 2025.
The non-suburban segment, covering short- and long-distance travel, recorded 3.9 per cent growth, with passenger numbers rising from 28.90 crore to 30.04 crore, while the suburban segment grew by 0.9 per cent, from 33.46 crore to 33.77 crore passengers.
Indian Railways also continued expanding its premium train services. The number of Vande Bharat services has increased to 164, including the recently introduced Vande Bharat Sleeper service between Howrah and Kamakhya.
The number of Amrit Bharat train services has reached 72, with four new services introduced during June.
The Railways said the sustained increase in freight movement and passenger traffic reflects continued improvements in operational efficiency, logistics capability and customer-centric services, while supporting India’s economic growth and strengthening transport infrastructure.
TNT KS
