New Delhi: Indian Railways has achieved record-breaking performance in both passenger traffic and freight movement during the financial year 2025–26, reinforcing its position as the backbone of India’s transport and logistics network.
According to official data released by PIB, Indian Railways carried 741 crore passengers in 2025–26, marking a 3.54% increase from 716 crore passengers in 2024–25. Alongside this growth, passenger revenue rose significantly to ₹80,000 crore, up 5.96% from ₹75,500 crore in the previous financial year, reflecting improved earnings and increased reliance on rail travel across the country.
On the freight front, Railways transported a record 1670 million tonnes (MT) of cargo, registering a 3.25% growth over the previous year. The number of wagons handled also increased by 4.56%, highlighting rising demand for efficient and cost-effective logistics solutions.
The growth in freight movement was largely driven by key sectors. Fertiliser transportation saw a 13.49% surge, while ‘Pig Iron and Finished Steel’ recorded a 13.11% increase, indicating strong agricultural demand and continued expansion in industrial activity.
Core infrastructure commodities also contributed significantly to the growth momentum. Iron ore transportation rose by 6.74% to 190.12 MT, while cement loading increased by 4.74% to 157.17 MT, reflecting ongoing infrastructure and construction activities across India.
Zone-wise performance showed balanced growth across the railway network. The South Western Railway (SWR) led with the highest growth of 14.89%, followed by North Central Railway (12.62%), East Coast Railway (10.42%), and West Central Railway (10.06%), all registering double-digit growth in freight loading.
In terms of freight earnings, Indian Railways recorded revenues of approximately ₹1,77,754 crore in 2025–26, a 1.44% increase compared to ₹1,75,302 crore in 2024–25. Iron ore emerged as the top revenue contributor with earnings of ₹14,600.51 crore, followed by cement, pig iron and finished steel, fertilisers, food grains, and mineral oil.
These achievements highlight Indian Railways’ growing role in enhancing connectivity, reducing logistics costs, and supporting economic growth. With consistent improvements in operational efficiency and capacity, Railways continues to be a critical driver of India’s development, offering reliable, accessible, and sustainable transport solutions for both passengers and industries.
