NEW DELHI: Despite challenges arising from the evolving geopolitical situation in West Asia and its impact on logistics, Indian Railways loaded 145 million tonnes of freight in May 2026, registering a 1.3 per cent increase compared with May 2025.
The growth was driven by strong performances in key commodity segments, particularly iron ore, steel, fertilisers and Balance Other Goods. According to the Ministry of Railways, Balance Other Goods recorded a 16 per cent growth over the corresponding period last year. Iron ore loading rose by 4.8 per cent, while Pig Iron and Finished Steel loading increased by 3.5 per cent. Fertiliser loading registered a growth of 6.2 per cent.
Coal, the largest component of railway freight traffic, also maintained steady momentum, with loading increasing by nearly 1 per cent year-on-year. “ To meet the requirements of thermal power plants and ensure energy security, Indian Railways accorded priority to coal movement and closely monitored its transit across the network”, the ministry claimed, adding that the minister Ashwini Vaishnaw continues monitoring the freight and other services to archive the goal.
The ministry said Indian Railways strengthened oversight of domestic and EXIM container traffic to ensure seamless freight movement and maintain supply chain efficiency despite challenging global conditions.
On the passenger front, more than 61 crore passengers travelled by train in May 2026, compared with around 59 crore during the same month last year. The increase was largely driven by the non-suburban segment, where passenger numbers rose from 28 crore to 30 crore, recording a growth of 7.4 per cent.
To meet the seasonal rise in travel demand, Indian Railways operated summer special trains across various routes. The national transporter currently operates 164 Vande Bharat services, including the recently launched Sleeper Vande Bharat service between Howrah and Kamakhya. The number of Amrit Bharat services has increased to 68, with three new services inaugurated during May 2026.