Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone in freight loading, with a total of 126.97 million tonnes (MT) loaded in August 2024, bringing the cumulative freight loading for the financial year 2024-25 up to August to 653.22 MT, according to a statement from the Railway Board.

“As the backbone of the nation’s freight transportation, Indian Railways continues to facilitate the movement of a wide range of goods across the country, maintaining its commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency,” the statement said.

In line with its goal to reach 3,000 million tonnes of freight loading by 2030, Indian Railways is actively expanding its network, upgrading its fleet, and improving operational efficiency under the National Rail Plan, according to the Railways Ministry.

This achievement reflects a notable rise compared to the 634.68 MT loaded during the same period in the previous financial year. In 2023-24, Indian Railways successfully loaded a total of 1,591 MT of freight, generating substantial revenue of INR 1,68,276 crore.

Coal continues to be the most significant commodity transported by Indian Railways, with 333.40 MT moved as of August 2024, a considerable increase from the 266.71 MT transported by the same month in the previous year. The total coal loading for 2023-24 reached 787.58 MT, up from 727.98 MT in 2022-23.

Beyond coal, Indian Railways handles a diverse array of commodities vital to the nation’s economy. The ministry highlighted that the freight service transports around 48 types of coal and coke products, 54 types of minerals and ores, 37 types of food grains, flours, and pulses, as well as 23 types of cement and clinker products. This range underscores the critical role Indian Railways plays in supporting India’s economic infrastructure.