Indian Railways has achieved yet another milestone in its freight business, reporting a significant growth of 8.5% in freight loading during August 2025 compared to the same period last year. The robust performance has been attributed to higher coal movement, increased steel transportation, and diversification of freight traffic, despite challenges posed by extended monsoon rains and moderating power demand.
Freight Loading Reaches 673.64 Million Tonnes in Five Months
Between April and August 2025, Indian Railways’ freight loading surged to 673.64 million tonnes (MT), surpassing the 653.22 MT recorded in the same period of the previous fiscal year. This steady rise highlights the resilience of the railways in maintaining supply chain efficiency and catering to diverse sectors of the economy.
A senior official stated that there has been a 31% growth in Balance Other Goods, which indicates healthy diversification of freight traffic and minimal impact of global disruptions, including the ongoing geo-political tariff war involving the United States of America (USA).
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Record Breaking Freight Earnings: Check August Month Earnings
In August 2025 alone, monthly freight loading touched 130.9 MT, compared to 120.6 MT in August 2024. This represents a solid 8.5% year-on-year growth. Alongside, freight earnings for August 2025 reached an all-time high of ₹14,100 crore, marking it as the highest ever monthly freight revenue in the history of Indian Railways.
Top 5 Sector Wise Growth
The growth in freight loading has been driven by multiple sectors, showcasing the expanding role of the railway freight ecosystem:
- Coal: 9% growth, remaining the backbone of railway freight despite rationalisation due to rains.
- Finished Steel: 22% increase, reflecting a boom in industrial and construction demand.
- Mineral Oil: 4.5% growth, aiding the energy sector.
- Domestic Containers: 6% growth, strengthening domestic trade movement.
- EXIM Containers: 5% rise in exports and imports, boosting international trade logistics.
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The Final Words
The strong performance of Indian Railways in freight loading directly contributes to India’s economic momentum. With a focus on multi-sectoral growth, Indian Railways is not only strengthening domestic supply chains but also enhancing India’s export competitiveness.
Officials believe the continuing push in freight reforms, efficiency in logistics, and adoption of digital freight solutions will further consolidate Indian Railways’ leadership in the transport sector.
