New Delhi: Indian Railways recorded a strong rise in freight activity during August 2026, with freight loading increasing by 5.4 per cent year-on-year to 137.9 million tonnes, compared with 130.9 million tonnes during the corresponding month last year.
The latest figures indicate continued momentum in the Railways’ freight business, while passenger traffic also witnessed significant growth during the month.
Freight Revenue Rises 6.27 Per Cent
According to the Ministry of Railways, freight revenue in August 2026 increased by 6.27 per cent compared with August 2025. The growth reflects sustained demand for rail-based transportation and the continued expansion of Indian Railways’ freight operations.
The Railways has been focusing on improving freight infrastructure, expanding cargo terminals and making rail transportation more efficient for businesses and industries.
Five New Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals Commissioned
Infrastructure expansion remained another important development during August. Five new Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs) were commissioned during the month, taking the cumulative number of commissioned terminals to 149 as of August 31, 2026.
The GCT initiative is aimed at strengthening last-mile connectivity and creating more efficient links between rail freight facilities and industries, logistics centres and other commercial destinations.
Amrit Bharat Services Expanded
Indian Railways also regularised 14 Amrit Bharat services during August by converting them from special trains into regular services. With this addition, the total number of Amrit Bharat services has reached 86.
The services regularised include routes connecting Subedarganj with Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, Gorakhpur with Bandra Terminus, Gorakhpur with Delhi Junction and Ahmedabad with Bhagalpur, among others.
The expansion is expected to provide passengers with more dependable long-distance travel options while strengthening connectivity between major regions.
Passenger Traffic Crosses 67 Crore
Passenger movement also registered notable growth. Indian Railways carried 67.27 crore passengers in August 2026, compared with 64.43 crore passengers in August 2025.
Suburban passenger traffic recorded particularly strong growth, underlining the critical role of railways in providing affordable and dependable daily transportation to people living in densely populated cities and surrounding areas.
Special Trains Meet Festival Demand
With passenger demand increasing during the festival season, Indian Railways also stepped up its special-train operations.
A total of 144 trips of Rakshabandhan special trains were operated between August 25 and 31, 2026, compared with 48 trips during August 8–14 in the previous year.
The increased deployment highlights the Railways’ efforts to respond to seasonal passenger demand and provide additional capacity during periods of heavy travel.
Freight and Passenger Operations Show Broad-Based Growth
The August figures present a picture of growth across both freight and passenger segments. Higher freight loading and revenue point to strengthening commercial activity, while rising passenger numbers reflect the continued dependence of millions of people on the railway network.
The commissioning of additional cargo terminals, expansion of regular Amrit Bharat services and deployment of festival special trains further demonstrate the Railways’ efforts to strengthen infrastructure and respond to changing transportation needs.
With freight volumes, passenger traffic and supporting infrastructure all showing positive movement, Indian Railways continues to play a central role in India’s logistics network as well as affordable public transportation.
