Indian Railways reported record performance in 2025–26, registering gains in both passenger operations and freight. Passenger carriage rose to 7,410 mn in the year, an increase of 3.54 per cent over 7,160 mn in 2024–25, while passenger revenue increased to Rs 800 bn, up 5.96 per cent from Rs 755 bn. These outcomes reflect improvements in operational efficiency and growing reliance on rail transport for mobility and commerce.

Freight loading reached 1,670 mn t in 2025–26, a rise of 3.25 per cent year on year, driven by higher bulk movements and improved logistics. The number of wagons handled increased to 29,186,475 from 27,912,271 in the previous year, a rise of 4.56 per cent, indicating greater capacity utilisation. This steady expansion positioned rail as a preferred mode for cost effective and efficient bulk transport.

Growth in key commodities supported the freight surge, with fertilisers rising by 13.49 per cent and pig iron and finished steel by 13.11 per cent, reflecting stronger agricultural and industrial demand. Iron ore transport increased by 6.74 per cent to 190.12 mn t and cement loading grew by 4.74 per cent to 157.17 mn t, underpinning ongoing infrastructure activity. Freight earnings amounted to Rs 1,777.54 bn, up 1.44 per cent from Rs 1,753.02 bn, with iron ore, cement and steel among the top revenue contributors.

Zone wise performance was broadly positive, led by South Western Railway with a 14.89 per cent increase and strong double digit gains in North Central at 12.62 per cent, East Coast at 10.42 per cent and West Central at 10.06 per cent. Several other zones recorded modest growth, supporting balanced regional development and enhanced freight handling capacity across the network. The combined improvement in passenger and freight metrics is expected to sustain the railway system’s contribution to national connectivity and economic growth.