MUMBAI: Central Railway (CR) on Sunday announced robust financial and operational growth, crossing the Rs 3,400 crore mark in freight revenue during the first five months of the current financial year. Driven by strong industrial demand and a surge in August performance, the network continues to play a vital role in the national supply chain.Between April and August 2026, CR transported 34.48 million tonnes (MT) of freight across 13,058 rakes, marking a 7% increase in tonnage compared with the 32.10 MT moved during the same period last year. Total freight earnings reached Rs 3,461.92 crore, up from Rs 3,346.80 crore in the corresponding period of the previous financial year.Automobile traffic also saw a notable increase, rising to 451 rakes from 357 rakes in the previous year — an addition of 94 rakes.Industrial hubs played a leading role in driving these numbers, with the Nagpur and Mumbai divisions accounting for the largest shares of both tonnage and revenue. The Nagpur Division contributed 20.31 MT, representing a 58.90% share, and generated Rs 2,072.73 crore, accounting for 59.87% of total revenue. The Mumbai Division followed with 8.56 MT, a 24.83% share, generating Rs 800.49 crore, or 23.12% of total revenue.Bulk commodities continued to form the backbone of CR’s freight basket, led by coal and containers. Coal remained the top commodity, with 17.00 MT transported across 4,291 rakes, generating Rs 1,556.87 crore. Containers were second, with 4.33 MT transported across 3,958 rakes, generating Rs 413.43 crore.Petroleum products and cement also recorded steady movement, at 2.91 MT and 2.82 MT respectively. Other essential commodities, including iron ore, fertilisers, food grains, sugar and onions, also contributed to the diversified logistics mix.August proved to be a milestone month, with CR recording its highest freight loading for August in the last 10 years at 6.85 MT. Monthly tonnage rose 22% across 2,567 rakes compared with August 2025, while revenue increased by more than 17% to Rs 684.78 crore.With targeted infrastructure enhancements, expanded terminal capacities and customer-focused logistics solutions, Central Railway remains positioned to support efficient freight movement and broader economic activity.
