Indian Railways showed continued operational gains in June with increases in both freight and passenger volumes. Freight loading rose 4% to 142.21 million tonnes from 136.71 million tonnes a year earlier. The network also carried 638.1 million passengers, up from 623.7 million in the same month last year. The railway ministry noted that stronger freight and passenger numbers, along with added services, support economic activity, improve logistics and offer better travel choices nationwide. Freight earnings grew by roughly 430 crore rupees, or 3%, compared with June last year. Several commodities posted gains, including fertilizers at 19.1%, other goods at 17.3%, iron ore at 9.4%, domestic coal at 4.9%, total coal at 3.6% and clinker at 7.2%. In the April-June quarter, freight loading reached 419.08 million tonnes versus 413.05 million tonnes the prior year, with notable rises in iron ore, clinker and other goods. Coal deliveries to power plants increased 7% to help meet summer demand. Non-suburban passenger travel grew 3.9% to 300.4 million, while suburban numbers rose 0.9% to 337.7 million. The ministry reported that Vande Bharat services now total 164 and Amrit Bharat services stand at 72 after four new routes began in June. Officials said ongoing freight and passenger growth reflects efforts to expand capacity, raise efficiency and deliver reliable transport that aids national economic expansion.
