Indian Railways reported strong operational performance for June 2026, demonstrating growth across both freight and passenger segments. The national carrier loaded 142.21 million tonnes of freight during the month, representing a 4% increase compared to 136.71 million tonnes in June 2025. This increased freight volume generated additional revenue of approximately ₹430 crore, marking a 3% year-over-year growth in earnings.
Commodity-wise performance showed particularly strong growth in fertilizers, which increased by 19.1% compared to the same month last year. Balance Other Goods category grew by 17.3%, while Iron Ore loading increased by 9.4%. Domestic Coal transportation grew by 4.9% and Total Coal by 3.6%, with Clinker showing 7.2% growth. Specifically, coal supply to power plants increased by 7% during June 2026 to meet extended summer season demand for thermal power generation.
The first quarter of FY 2026-27 (April-June) saw total freight loading reach 419.08 million tonnes, surpassing the 413.05 million tonnes recorded in the corresponding period of FY 2025-26. Quarterly performance showed Iron Ore loading growing by 7.44%, Clinker by 6.54%, and Balance & Other Goods by 12.16% compared to the same quarter previous year.
Passenger traffic also showed steady growth, with Indian Railways carrying 63.81 crore passengers in June 2026 compared to 62.37 crore in June 2025. The Non-Suburban segment recorded 3.9% growth, increasing from 28.90 crore to 30.04 crore passengers. The Suburban segment grew by 0.9%, from 33.46 crore to 33.77 crore passengers.
The railway network continued its service modernization with the expansion of premium train services. The number of Vande Bharat services reached 164, including the recently introduced Vande Bharat Sleeper service between Howrah and Kamakhya. Amrit Bharat train services expanded to 72, with four new services inaugurated during June 2026, enhancing affordable long-distance connectivity across the country.